As of November 22nd, an estimated 60,000 Russian troops, augmented by approximately 11,000 North Korean soldiers, are concentrated in Russia’s Kursk Oblast. These forces aim to establish a buffer zone along the Sumy Oblast border, countering Ukraine’s August incursion. Ukrainian forces, having initially gained ground, are holding their positions in Kursk Oblast while Russian forces have retaken approximately half of the initially lost territory. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant Russian casualties, with over 7,900 killed, 12,200 wounded, and 717 captured in the three months since the offensive began.
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President Biden authorized Ukraine to use U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles against Russian and North Korean forces, primarily targeting Kursk Oblast, marking a significant policy shift. This decision, communicated to Kyiv days prior, aims to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities against a planned Russian offensive supported by North Korean troops. While not expected to alter the war’s overall trajectory, the authorization allows Ukraine to strike critical military assets and deter further aggression. The decision follows previous U.S. hesitancy and culminates from discussions initiated after Ukrainian officials presented target lists in August.
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Ukrainian intelligence reports that North Korea has supplied Russia with 50 self-propelled howitzers and 20 multiple launch rocket systems, some of which have been deployed to the Kursk Oblast. This follows reports of 11,000 North Korean troops training alongside Russian forces, and previous deliveries of millions of artillery shells. These shipments bolster Russia’s military efforts amidst dwindling supplies and Western sanctions. The deepening Russia-North Korea alliance contrasts with South Korea’s growing support for Ukraine, including the consideration of lethal aid.
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Following the 47th Mechanized Brigade’s initial forays into western Russia, a fierce Russian counteroffensive has begun in Kursk Oblast, aiming to reclaim the 250-square-mile salient seized by Ukrainian forces in August. The 47th Brigade, equipped with American M-2 Bradley vehicles and M-1 Abrams tanks, is now fighting a desperate battle to defend the left flank of the salient against a relentless Russian assault. The Russians, emboldened by the change in U.S. administration and the potential for a negotiated armistice, are determined to retake Kursk before President-elect Trump takes office in January. Despite significant casualties, they show no signs of relenting, forcing the 47th Brigade and its allies to fight tooth and nail to maintain control of their hard-won gains.
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Russian forces, bolstered by North Korean reinforcements, are engaging in fierce fighting with Ukrainian troops in Kursk Oblast, aiming to reclaim the area before President-elect Trump’s inauguration. Despite facing significant losses, the Kremlin is determined to recapture the Ukrainian salient, particularly the town of Sudzha. The Ukrainian forces, outnumbered and outgunned, are putting up a valiant defense, inflicting heavy casualties on the Russians through drone strikes and tank engagements. This desperate struggle reflects a larger political battle, with Russia seeking to solidify its territorial gains before a potential ceasefire, potentially handing Ukraine control of a portion of Russian territory.
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During the Ukrainian military operation in Russia’s Kursk Oblast, launched in August 2024, the Russians have lost nearly 8,000 soldiers. The Ukrainian Air Assault Forces also reported the destruction or damage of a significant amount of Russian equipment and weapons, including 58 tanks, 162 infantry fighting vehicles, and 136 artillery systems, among others. Furthermore, Ukrainian forces captured roughly 300 Russian soldiers and seized multiple military assets such as 9 tanks and 4 armoured personnel carriers.
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North Korean troops have reportedly entered the Kursk combat zone, and as I grapple with this information, I can’t help but feel an overwhelming mix of disbelief and dread at what this means for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The idea that Moscow would rely on soldiers from a nation so entrenched in isolation and propaganda highlights the desperation of their situation. While the Ukrainian government claims these troops have crossed into conflict territory, the implications are far-reaching and unsettling. Underpinning this act is a broader strategy that risks dragging North Korea further into a quagmire from which they might never emerge.… Continue reading
It’s no surprise that the Russians have launched a counter-offensive in Kursk Oblast. This territory was always seen as a tactical move, not a strategic one. It seems that Zelenskyy had planned for this, as the Russians have had to divert men and resources from other areas to counter-attack in Kursk. This was likely factored into the decision to engage in Kursk, with the understanding that it may result in a loss but would ultimately serve to draw Russian forces away from other critical locations.
The key now is whether this move will make a significant impact in the east, which remains uncertain.… Continue reading
Russian forces “wiping out” Kursk Oblast’s Sudzha with bombs, Ukrainian general says. The very headline is enough to send chills down anyone’s spine. The idea that a country would bomb its own towns and villages as a part of a military strategy is not only horrifying but also a clear indication of the extreme measures being taken during times of conflict. In the case of Russia, this scorched earth strategy seems to be a recurring theme, as seen in the past apartment-house bombings that provided a pretext for military action. The concept of “if we can’t have it, nobody can” seems to be deeply ingrained in these tactics.… Continue reading
Zelenskyy’s announcement of Ukrainian forces taking more territory in the ongoing Kursk incursion is both surprising and impressive. It raises questions about the effectiveness of the Russian air forces and their strategy in the conflict. The fact that Ukraine is advancing further and further into Russian territory is a significant blow to Russia and a testament to the strength of the Ukrainian military.
The potential end of the war by the year’s end may seem like wishful thinking, but the idea of Ukraine taking over Russia completely in a military adventure novel scenario is intriguing. The desire for the war to be over, preferably in favor of Ukraine, is a sentiment shared by many who are tired of the conflict and its devastating effects.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker