Ukraine's Army Gains Ground in Kursk Region

Ukraine's military leader, Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, announced that Ukrainian troops have taken control of 1,300 square kilometers in Russia's Kursk region and captured 594 Russian prisoners. The operation began on August 6 and caught Russian forces by surprise. The claims are yet to be confirmed.

Ukraine's army chief reported on Tuesday that Ukrainian troops have secured nearly 1,300 square kilometers (500 square miles) in Russia's Kursk region.

General Oleksandr Syrskyi disclosed the capture of 594 Russian prisoners since the start of the operation on August 6, which allegedly caught Russian forces off-guard.

While the claims await verification, Syrskyi noted that Russian forces are diverting troops from other areas, weakening their overall defense as they attempt to encircle Ukrainian offensive troops and plan counter-offensive measures in the Kursk region.

(With inputs from agencies.)