Overview

• Ukrainian forces have established positions in the Russian region of Belgorod, marking a significant escalation in the conflict, as confirmed by President Zelenskyj.
• The operations aim to protect Ukrainian border regions, including Charkiw and Sumy, while reducing Russian pressure on other fronts.
• President Zelenskyj stated that advancing into enemy territory is intended to push the war back to its origins.
• Russian authorities have not confirmed the Ukrainian presence in Belgorod but report defensive actions, including the destruction of a dam to impede Ukrainian advances.
• This development follows Ukraine's earlier operations in Kursk, where control was maintained for months before a recent withdrawal.