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On August 13, 2024, Ukraine proposed to halt its cross-border raids into Russia if Moscow agrees to a “just peace.” This offer follows a surprising offensive launched by Ukrainian forces on August 6 in Russia’s western Kursk region, where they captured over two dozen settlements. This incursion is the most significant cross-border attack on Russian soil since World War II.
According to the Institute for the Study of War, Ukrainian forces were in control of at least 800 square kilometers of Russian territory as of August 12. Despite these advances, Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Georgiy Tykhy, emphasized that Kyiv has no interest in annexing Russian land, calling their actions “absolutely legitimate.”
Russia reported repelling new attacks in Kursk and accused Ukraine of receiving support from the West for these operations. In response to the escalating conflict, Ukraine imposed movement restrictions in a 20-kilometer zone along the Sumy-Kursk border.
Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed to expel Ukrainian troops, accusing Ukraine of attempting to sow discord within Russian society. Meanwhile, Ukrainian military officials stated that their aim is to destabilize Russia and force Moscow to protect its own borders.
The situation remains tense, with significant losses reported on both sides, and thousands of civilians fleeing the affected areas.