Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday accused Ukraine of trying to destabilize Russia over the recent invasion of the Kursk region, but stressed the effort was doomed to failure, reported Reuters
“The losses of the Armed Forces of Ukraine are increasing significantly, especially among the most combat-capable units that the enemy is transferring to our borders,” Putin said during a televised meeting with high-ranking security forces and governors of border regions.
“The adversary will certainly receive a decent rebuff, and all the tasks before us will be fulfilled, without a doubt,” he added.
According to Putin, Ukraine is likely trying to improve its negotiating position, but negotiations with Kyiv cannot be possible while he accuses the Ukrainian side of deliberately targeting civilians during the operation in the Kursk region.
He also noted that Ukraine is trying to slow down the advance of Russian troops on other fronts, however, according to him, Russian forces continue offensive actions.
Putin’s comments were the most detailed since the surprise attack by Ukrainian forces on Russian territory on August 6. They were aimed at demonstrating control over the situation and confidence that this offensive would not succeed. However, he also warned officials to be prepared for the situation to get worse before it gets better.
“The adversary will continue to try to destabilize the situation in the border zone in order to shake the internal political situation in our country,” Putin said, responding to the report of the governor of Bryansk region, another border region.
“If today is relatively calm in Bryansk region, this does not mean that the situation will remain the same tomorrow,” he added.
