Ukrainian forces face setbacks as Kursk frontline falters
Ukrainian forces are at risk of losing control over the territories gained in the Kursk region, which could weaken the entire frontline. Ukraine has already lost 40 per cent of the land acquired in Russia.
Ukrainian forces may lose control over a significant portion of territories in the Kursk region that they captured during the August offensive. According to the Associated Press, the situation on the frontline is challenging, and communication delays and flawed tactics are leading to human losses. Russia has concentrated over 50,000 soldiers in the region, including military personnel from North Korea.
Difficult situation on the frontline
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, hoped that controlling the Kursk region would force Russia to negotiate. However, Ukrainian and Western officials fear that this strategy may weaken the entire frontline. Some commanders on the frontline point to low soldier morale and question the decisions of the command.
Problems with communication and tactics
Commanders, who wish to remain anonymous, report that some orders are not suitable for the situation, and a lack of clarity about enemy and own positions hinders their actions. One commander stresses that the intensity of the fighting prevents the evacuation of fallen soldiers, which further affects morale.
Ukrainian forces were not prepared for Russia's aggressive response and lack the ability to either counterattack or retreat. "There’s no other option. We’ll fight here because if we just pull back to our borders, they won’t stop," says one commander.
