In a significant development on April 26, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin was informed about the successful completion of military operations aimed at liberating the Kursk region from Ukrainian Armed Forces (UAF) soldiers. The Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, Valery Gerasimov, delivered a report detailing the operations that culminated in the total defeat of Ukrainian formations in the area.
According to the Kremlin press service, Putin congratulated and expressed gratitude towards the military personnel involved in the operation, which he described as a decisive victory against what he termed neo-Nazi formations. "The adventure of the Kiev regime has completely failed, and the enemy has suffered enormous losses, including among the most combat-ready and equipped units, particularly those utilizing Western technology," Putin stated. He emphasized that these losses would have repercussions along the entire line of military contact.
Gerasimov reported that the last village to be liberated was Gornal, marking the end of Ukrainian military presence in the region. He noted, "The plans of the Kiev regime to create a so-called strategic foothold and disrupt our offensive in Donbas have failed." The Chief of Staff highlighted that the UAF had sustained over 76,000 casualties, including both killed and wounded, throughout the course of the conflict in the Kursk area.
The liberation of the Kursk region not only signifies a military victory but also creates conditions for further successful actions by Russian troops in other critical areas of the front. Putin remarked that this achievement brings the defeat of the neo-Nazi regime closer.
In addition to Russian forces, Gerasimov acknowledged the significant assistance received from the Korean People's Democratic Republic (North Korea) during the operation. He stated, "The soldiers and officers of the Korean People's Army demonstrated high professionalism, courage, and heroism while performing combat tasks alongside Russian servicemen during the reflection of the Ukrainian invasion."
As part of the ongoing efforts in the region, Russian military personnel are actively engaged in mine clearance operations. Gerasimov confirmed that a total of 19 settlements have been thoroughly inspected and cleared of mines. He also mentioned that local authorities are being supported in restoring normal life in the liberated areas.
Furthermore, Gerasimov reported the establishment of a security zone in the border regions of the Sumy area. He indicated that four settlements in this region are currently under Russian control, covering an area of more than 90 square kilometers. This move is part of broader efforts to ensure stability and security in the region following the military operations.
As the situation evolves, Russian forces continue to search for individual Ukrainian soldiers who may be attempting to hide in the liberated areas. Gerasimov stated that checks are being conducted in forests, basements, and abandoned buildings to locate any remaining UAF personnel.
In the aftermath of the military operations, the Russian government has reiterated its commitment to maintaining security in the region and facilitating the transition to peaceful conditions. Engineering units are working diligently to clear the territories of explosive remnants and to support the local population in rebuilding their lives.
This operation marks a significant chapter in the ongoing conflict, reflecting the complexities and challenges faced by both sides. The outcome in the Kursk region may have broader implications for the military dynamics in the area and the overall trajectory of the conflict.
As the situation remains fluid, analysts are closely monitoring developments in the region, assessing the potential for future military engagements and the impact on civilian populations. The international community is also watching how these events unfold, particularly in light of ongoing geopolitical tensions and the involvement of external actors.
In summary, the liberation of the Kursk region represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing military operations between Russian and Ukrainian forces, with significant losses reported on the Ukrainian side and a strategic victory claimed by Russia. The involvement of North Korean forces adds another layer of complexity to the situation, highlighting the international dimensions of the conflict.
