Overview

• Vladimir Putin visited the Kursk region for the first time since Russia declared it had expelled Ukrainian forces in April 2025, according to the Kremlin.
• Ukraine disputes Moscow’s claim of full recapture, asserting that its troops continue operations in the contested area.
• The visit included meetings with local volunteers and an inspection of the under-construction Kursk-II nuclear power plant.
• Russia’s defense ministry reported shooting down 159 Ukrainian drones, highlighting ongoing hostilities despite stalled peace talks.
• A Russian missile strike in Ukraine’s Sumy region killed six soldiers and injured ten, underscoring the persistent volatility of the conflict.