Displaying items by tag: Kursk

US officials have arrived in Moscow to discuss a proposed thirty-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. Special envoy Steve Witkoff hopes to persuade Russia to agree to the deal, which Ukraine accepted earlier this week after talks in Jeddah. The Kremlin confirmed discussions were planned but gave no details. US secretary of state Marco Rubio said that the ceasefire decision now rests with Russia, while Donald Trump warned of financial consequences if Russia rejects peace. Meanwhile, Russia claims to have recaptured 86% of the Kursk region, which Ukraine invaded last year. Vladimir Putin, visiting the area, has reportedly ordered a full military push to reclaim all lost territory. Events this week show a remarkably swift turnaround from a week ago: see

Joe Biden’s long-awaited decision to allow Ukraine to use American missiles against Russian territory comes amid significant Russian territorial gains in 2024. One study shows that Russia has captured nearly 2,700 sq km of Ukrainian land this year - six times its 2023 gains. This aggressive push has strained Ukraine’s defences, despite Kyiv’s efforts to repel attacks. The destruction is immense, and Ukraine’s stretched defensive lines are increasingly vulnerable. The surprise incursion into Russia’s Kursk region initially boosted morale but is now faltering, with Russian forces reclaiming nearly 50% of lost territory. Analysts suggest that the incursion may have led to a broader strategic miscalculation, tying down its best troops and advanced equipment without significantly slowing Russia’s eastern advances. Meanwhile, the approaching second Trump administration casts uncertainty over US military support for Ukraine, raising fears of reduced aid as the war continues.