Russian troops have accomplished significant gains in the Kursk region, having liberated over 86% of the territory previously held by Ukrainian forces, amounting to more than 1,100 square kilometers. This announcement was made by General Valery Gerasimov, Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, during discussions with President Vladimir Putin on March 12, 2025. The operations reportedly resulted in the liberation of 24 settlements and 259 square kilometers within the last five days alone.
According to Gerasimov, over 400 soldiers from the Ukrainian Armed Forces (UAF) have been taken prisoner, with losses to Ukrainian personnel exceeding 67,000. "The enemy lost more than 67,000 soldiers. This is the most prepared and motivated units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and engaging foreign mercenaries," Gerasimov reported, underscoring the impact of the Russian military campaign.
The recent offensive, which included over 600 Russian troops, involved unexpected maneuvers along the main gas pipeline and has led to Russian forces not only retaking Kursk but also crossing over state lines, entering the Sumy region. Gerasimov noted, "Kyiv wanted to create strong positions … but these plans failed," acknowledging the strategic miscalculations made by Ukrainian leadership.
Putin expressed gratitude to the military personnel involved, emphasizing the need to solidify gains. "I ask you to convey my gratitude to the entire personnel for what has been done recently," he stated, highlighting the efforts made by units like the Akhmat special forces during the operations.
The President outlined future objectives, stating, "The task is to completely liberate the territory of the Kursk region… and, of course, think about creating safety zones up to the state border." This comment signals Russia's intentions to maintain stability and perhaps prevent the resurgence of Ukrainian forces in the area.
Reports indicate Ukrainian forces had initially sought to use the Kursk region as leverage to extend their influence, but operational strategies from Moscow have weathered those ambitions. The offensive, dubbed 'Operation Potok,' resulted from Russian forces breaking through UAF defenses via gas pipeline routes, which had previously facilitated fuel supplies through Ukraine to Europe.
Significant is the timing of this military operation, as it came just weeks after UAF operations commenced earlier this year. Gerasimov noted the systematic dismantling of Ukrainian forces operating within the Kursk territory, stating, "Ukrainian formations operating within the Kursk region are being systematically destroyed."
The liberation of the Kursk region not only enhances Russian territorial claims but also affects regional dynamics, compelling Ukrainian defense forces to reconsider their defensive walls. The commander-in-chief of Ukrainian Armed Forces, Oleksandr Syrskyi, confirmed Ukrainian troops are actively engaged in defensive maneuvers to establish more favorable positions. Reports have surfaced indicating massive retrief of UAF members from Kursk back to safer territories within Ukraine, with estimates indicating around 10,000 troops may have been involved.
The ramifications of these developments foreground discussions about humanitarian treatment for captured personnel. Putin has made clear distinctions, indicating how foreign mercenaries will not fall under the Geneva Convention provisions. He stated, "People who commit crimes against civilians and oppose Russian troops will be treated as terrorists," which lays down the Russian perspective on those caught within these engagements.
Despite the recent successes, Russian forces recognize the necessity for decisive actions to prevent UAF regrouping. Precautionary statements from military leadership highlight the complex nature of such operations, with estimates on the necessity of holding liberated territories for extended periods to mitigate any counteroffensive risks.
Looking forward, Russian military strategy seems poised on sustained offensives to eliminate remaining pockets of defense by the UAF. Putin's wrap-up of military discussions urges confidence, stating, "Our goal is soon to completely liberate the territory of Kursk region, reinforce the state border, and lay groundwork for future security zones," marking the aspirations of Russia’s military directives moving forward.
The current state of affairs lays bare the tense conflict and the impacts reverberation throughout not just the immediate parties but the overarching regional geopolitical dynamics. The liberation of Kursk highlights not just military tactics but also ideological battles rooted deep within the historical strife and political aspirations of both Moscow and Kyiv as they continue to navigate the precarious waters of this enduring conflict.