Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered his military on Monday, August 12, 2024, to “dislodge” Ukrainian troops who entered Russian territory last week.
Authorities in the Kursk region report that over 120,000 people have been displaced due to the ongoing conflict.
Ukraine launched an offensive into Russia’s Kursk region on Tuesday, August 6, reportedly capturing over two dozen settlements.
In a televised meeting with government officials, Putin stated, “The main task is, of course, for the defense ministry to dislodge the enemy from our territories.”
Kursk regional governor Alexei Smirnov informed Putin that an estimated 121,000 people have fled the region since the fighting began.
The conflict has resulted in at least 12 civilian deaths and 121 injuries.
Authorities are expanding the evacuation area to include the Belovsky district, home to approximately 14,000 residents.
The neighboring Belgorod region is also evacuating its Krasnoyaruzhsky border district.
According to Smirnov, Ukrainian forces have advanced about 12 kilometers into Russian territory, capturing 28 towns and villages.
The new front is reportedly around 40 kilometers in length.
Putin claimed there had been an increase in men signing up to fight and assured that Russia would show “support for all those in distress.”
He concluded by stating, “The enemy will receive a worthy riposte.”
The situation remains fluid as both Russian and Ukrainian forces continue to engage in the border region.
