Zelenskyy on Kursk Oblast operation: It continues as planned. Ukrainian troops are strengthening their positions
The military operation in Kursk Oblast is proceeding exactly as originally planned, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said during his evening video address on August 17.
The head of state recalled that earlier on August 17, the commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi reported on the continuation of the advance in Kursk Oblast.
"The bravery of Ukrainians does great things. Now we are strengthening our positions. The bridgehead of our presence is getting stronger. I want to thank every soldier who ensures this: all soldiers, sergeants and commanders," Zelenskyy stated.
He also thanked "every unit that replenishes the exchange fund" thanks to the new Russian prisoners of war.
"This is important. This brings closer the release of our military, our civilians from Russian captivity. We remember everyone whom we have to bring home," the president added.
Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine will diplomatically insist on "bold steps and decisions" from partners to change the course of the war and bring it to a just conclusion.
"We need all partners who can really help to help. These are the United States, Britain, France, and other partners," the head of state noted.
What is happening in Kursk Oblast?
The first unofficial reports of a border breach in Kursk Oblast appeared on August 7. Against this background, Russian leader Vladimir Putin mentioned a "large-scale provocation" by Ukraine.
In response, Russia announced a "counter-terrorist operation" in the Belgorod, Bryansk and Kursk oblasts.
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, confirmed the fighting in Kursk Oblast for the first time on August 12. As of August 15, 1,150 m² and 82 settlements in the region are already under the control of Ukrainian fighters, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces reported. According to the Washington Post, Ukraine now controls the Sudzha gas metering station, located approximately 8 kilometers deep into Russia.
A military commandant's office has already been created in the controlled territories with Major General Eduard Moskalyov becoming its head.
Meanwhile, Ukraine has already launched a hotline for residents of Kursk Oblast who want to evacuate, and is also working on a possible humanitarian corridor to Sumy.