By KYIV, Ukraine — Ukrainian forces have destroyed one key bridge and struck another in Russia’s Kursk region, potentially disrupting supply lines as Ukraine continues its cross-border incursion that began on August 6, officials reported Sunday.
The bridge attacks, which appear aimed at hindering a Russian counter-offensive in Kursk, could indicate Ukraine’s intention to establish a foothold in the region.
Ukrainian Air Force Chief Lt. Gen. Mykola Oleshchuk released a video on Friday showing an airstrike that severed a bridge over the Seim River near the town of Glushkovo.
Pro-Kremlin military bloggers acknowledged that the destruction of this bridge will impede the delivery of supplies to Russian forces opposing Ukraine’s incursion, though they noted that Moscow could still utilize pontoons and smaller bridges.
Less than two days later, Oleshchuk and Russian regional Governor Alexei Smirnov reported that Ukrainian troops had struck a second bridge in the area.
While the exact location of this second attack was not officially confirmed as of Sunday morning, Russian Telegram channels claimed that a bridge over the Seim in the village of Zvannoe had been hit.
Russia’s Mash news site reported that the attacks left only one intact bridge in the area. The Associated Press could not immediately verify these claims.
Glushkovo is situated approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) north of the Ukrainian border and about 16 kilometers (10 miles) northwest of the main battle zone in Kursk. Zvannoe is located an additional 8 kilometers (5 miles) to the northwest.
If confirmed, these Ukrainian strikes could significantly complicate Moscow’s efforts to resupply its forces in Kursk and evacuate civilians from the area. The attacks may also signal a shift in Ukraine’s military strategy, potentially aiming to extend its offensive operations deeper into Russian territory.
The ongoing situation in the Kursk region highlights the escalating nature of the conflict, with Ukraine demonstrating its capability to conduct strategic strikes within Russian borders.
The international community continues to monitor these developments closely, as they could have significant implications for the broader trajectory of the war.
As of Sunday, neither Russian nor Ukrainian officials had provided further details on the status of their forces in the region or any plans for future operations. The situation remains fluid, with both sides likely reassessing their strategies in light of these recent developments.
