Ukraine took a bold step by launching an operation on the territory of Russia, which has already brought notable successes and created significant pressure on the Kremlin. The capture of more than 20 villages in Russia’s Kursk region was an unexpected blow to Moscow’s positions and boosted the morale of Ukrainians, who have been fighting mostly defensive battles for the past year.
This success, however, raised an important question for Kyiv: should it continue to deploy additional troops in Russia when Ukraine’s eastern front needs immediate reinforcements. Analysts of the Wall Street Journal and Financial Times note that despite the brilliant start of the operation, Kyiv must now determine how to rationally distribute its forces, because in the east of the country, Russian troops continue to carry out relentless attacks.
In a few days, Ukrainian forces advanced 30 kilometers deep into Russian territory, demonstrating to its citizens and allies that Ukraine is capable of more than just defense. At the same time, as the Financial Times reports, soldiers from six different brigades were involved for this operation, many of whom were redeployed from critical points in the east of Ukraine, such as Chasiv Yar, New York and Toretsk.
The operation in the Kursk region is a high-stakes move, given the limited resources and numbers of Ukrainian troops on other fronts. Ukraine’s military leaders are now faced with a dilemma: to continue the offensive against Russia, which is sure to undermine the Kremlin’s position, or to focus on defending their own territory, where Russian troops are advancing.
American analysts also point out that this operation has a deep symbolic character and may affect Russia’s strategy. The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) points out that the invasion of Ukraine could force the Kremlin to reassess the distribution of its forces, as the border with Ukraine, which Moscow has long considered secure, has become vulnerable.
Despite the successes in the Kursk region, Ukrainian military experts and officers emphasize that the situation on the eastern front remains critical. According to one of the officers, there is a shortage of men and equipment, which can negatively affect the ability to maintain defense at these important frontiers.
The operation in the Kursk region is an example of a complex and multifaceted war, which Ukraine is waging simultaneously on several fronts. Its successes on the territory of Russia raise questions about Kyiv’s future strategy and readiness for a long-term war, which requires not only military, but also political solutions.
