Ukraine's Incursion into Russia: A Three-Month Standoff

For three months now, Ukraine's military has been holding ground in Russia's Kursk region. This is the first time foreign troops have entered Russian territory since World War II, causing a buzz around the world. While Ukraine's advance has slowed, neither side has made significant gains. Analysts suggest Ukraine aims to boost morale and use its position as a bargaining chip. Russian President Vladimir Putin, meanwhile, is downplaying the situation to avoid diverting resources from the main battlefront in eastern Ukraine. The latest reports show Ukraine controlling about 300 square miles in Kursk. A Ukrainian commander, known as "Kholod, " says the fighting is fierce, with both sides making small gains and counterattacks. Russia has deployed around 40, 000 troops, including conscripts and reservists. However, experts note that Moscow hasn't thrown its full force into the fight, likely to keep the focus on the main war effort.Over 100, 000 civilians have been displaced due to the fighting, with many living behind Ukrainian lines. The situation in Kursk has become somewhat normalized, with Russians generally not showing much interest unless directly affected. Putin's government has characterized the incursion as a "raid" to downplay its significance. Ukraine's goal seems to be showing its Western allies that Russia's military isn't invincible and to boost morale at home. However, the aim to divert Russian troops from the eastern front has not panned out yet. Kursk could still be useful in future negotiations, experts say. The main focus of the war remains in eastern Ukraine, particularly around the strategic city of Pokrovsk. Russia is expanding its assaults in key areas like Kharkiv, Donetsk, and Zaporizhzhia. The Kremlin seems determined to advance in Donbas before weather conditions worsen.