Ukraine's surprise incursion into the Kursk region of the Russian Federation led to a rapid takeover of territory that embarrassed Russian President Vladimir Putin and boosted Ukrainian morale.
According to The Wall Street Journal, the Ukrainian leadership now faces a dilemma - whether for further achievements it is worth transferring significantly more troops and military equipment, which are urgently needed on the eastern front in Ukraine. There, the Ukrainian armed forces are trying to limit the advance of the invaders.
In just a few days, Ukraine has advanced tens of kilometers from the border, demonstrating to its enemies, its own citizens and allies that it is still in the fight and can spring devastating surprises on its adversary. The operation is a high-stakes move as Ukraine faces shortages of manpower and military equipment on the eastern front.
Over the weekend, Russia imposed an anti-terrorist operation regime in three border areas as it prepares forces to repel the biggest Ukrainian attack on Russian internationally recognized territory since the war began in February 2022.
Ukrainian forces crossed the Russian border in the early hours of August 6 and entered the western parts of Russia's Kursk region – a surprise attack that is believed to be aimed at gaining a better footing in possible ceasefire talks after the US presidential election.