KYIV, Ukraine — In a significant development concerning the ongoing conflict, Russia’s top military official claimed that all Ukrainian forces have been removed from Russia’s Kursk region. This area had been under Ukrainian control since a surprising incursion last year. The announcement was made during a Kremlin meeting on Saturday. Nevertheless, Ukrainian representatives refuted the assertion.
Russia’s Chief of the General Staff, Valery Gerasimov, conveyed the update to President Vladimir Putin, as reported during his meeting. Putin expressed commendation for the efforts of Russian soldiers and commanders, declaring that Ukraine’s incursion into Kursk was a “complete failure.” He emphasized that regaining control over the Kursk border region set the stage for further Russian advancements on the frontlines.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials contradicted Russia’s announcement, maintaining that combat operations in the Kursk region are ongoing. Ukraine’s General Staff stated that Ukrainian defenses are still active in certain parts of Kursk, enduring difficult conditions while maintaining their positions and launching effective counterattacks using a variety of weapons.
The unexpected Ukrainian offensive in August 2024 resulted in the capture of approximately 1,300 square kilometers (500 square miles) of Russian territory. However, the initial gains have been gradually diminished, with Ukraine struggling to maintain control into early 2025.
Additionally, Gerasimov verified the presence of North Korean soldiers who joined the fight against Ukrainian troops in Kursk alongside Russian forces. These North Korean soldiers participated in combat missions, demonstrating remarkable expertise and courage, according to Gerasimov.
Reports from the previous fall indicated that North Korea had dispatched between 10,000 and 12,000 troops to support Russia in Kursk. Despite Western and South Korean claims, Russia and North Korea had been non-committal about the deployment details, simply stating their military cooperation was lawful.
The backdrop to these developments involved diplomatic efforts, as U.S. President Donald Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Vatican City on the periphery of a papal funeral. They deliberated over the prospects of a ceasefire agreement. The brief 15-minute meeting was noted as constructive, although plans for a subsequent session were canceled due to scheduling conflicts.
Trump voiced aspirations for achieving a resolution, suggesting high-level talks between Ukraine and Russia. His envoy, Steve Witkoff, had discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, highlighting a proximity to a deal. Despite these dialogues, Trump’s subsequent statements questioned Putin’s sincerity in reaching peace, criticizing the ongoing missile and drone assaults.
Meanwhile, reports of fatal Russian attacks across Ukraine surfaced, with local officials noting three deaths and several injuries in distinct areas. Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepted numerous drones amidst these hostilities.
Zelenskyy’s diplomatic engagements continued in Rome, where he met with French and British leaders, suggesting ongoing international efforts in pursuit of peace.