Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the recent events in Ukraine’s incursion into Russia’s Kursk Region, stating that Moscow would deal with the “Ukrainian bandits” who tried to destabilize the region. Despite this provocation, President Putin highlighted that Russia has made significant progress in key areas of Donbass, advancing at a pace not seen in years. The Russian armed forces are taking control of territories by square kilometers, according to the president.
Putin emphasized that Kiev’s attempt to stop Moscow’s advances in Donbass would ultimately fail and that Moscow will handle those responsible for entering Russian territory with the intention of causing instability at the border. The president suggested that this event might prompt Kiev to realize the need for negotiations to resolve the conflict, reiterating that Russia has never refused to hold such talks.
However, Putin expressed his belief that the Ukrainian leadership likely does not want to end the fighting, as it would require holding new presidential elections once martial law is lifted in the country. He noted that the current authorities are not prepared for this and have little chance of being re-elected, which is why they are not interested in ending the conflict.
Russia will continue to protect its people in Donbass, as well as “our common future, the future of Russia,” according to President Putin. Moscow aims to prevent hostile structures from forming near its borders that plot aggressive plans against Russia and frequently attempt to destabilize the Russian Federation.
Early last month, Kiev deployed thousands of troops in Russia’s Kursk Region, marking its largest cross-border assault since the beginning of the conflict in 2022. While Ukraine’s forces initially managed to seize some border areas, their advance was eventually halted, as stated by the Russian Defense Ministry.
Since the operation began on August 6, Moscow estimates that Kiev’s forces have suffered significant losses, with more than 7,800 servicemen killed, 75 tanks destroyed, and over 500 armored vehicles lost.