Ukrainian forces have left a trail of destruction as they advanced into Russian territory, capturing the town of Sudzha in the Kursk region. Associated Press journalists visited the area on Friday, August 18, 2024, on a Ukrainian government-organized trip.
In Sudzha’s central square, artillery fire has damaged a statue of Soviet founder Vladimir Lenin. An administrative building shows signs of heavy damage, with blown-out windows and a facade scorched and pockmarked by bullet holes.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Thursday that Sudzha, located 10 kilometers (6 miles) from the border, was under full Ukrainian control. This marks the largest incursion into Russian territory since World War II, which began on August 6.
Evidence of the Ukrainian advance is visible along the roads leading to Sudzha. A bullet-riddled sign with arrows pointing to Ukraine and Russia lies on debris-strewn grass, while a burned-out tank stands by the roadside.
The incursion has led to the evacuation of over 120,000 civilians, according to Russian authorities. Ukraine claims to have captured at least 100 Russian troops.
Zelenskyy has stated that Ukraine will establish a command office in Sudzha to coordinate aid and military affairs, suggesting a potential long-term presence in the region.
The strategic importance of Sudzha includes access to main roads for further operations in Russia and proximity to a natural gas metering station for flows from West Siberian gas fields to Central Europe.
As of Friday, Ukrainian forces continued their advance in the Kursk region, with fighting reported south of Korenevo. The full scope and objectives of the operation remain unclear.
