Ukrainian Soldiers Fight Back in Kursk

Ukrainian troops have made significant strides in the Kursk region, capturing Russian prisoners of war and reclaiming control over approximately 80 settlements. Soldiers like Lyasha and Afon, who have been engaged in combat since the onset of the Russian invasion in 2022, describe their experiences with a sense of humility, contrasting with the bravado often displayed by less experienced fighters. Ground forces commander Oleksandr Pavliuk reported on Telegram that Ukrainian forces are "successfully fulfilling tasks" in the area, emphasizing the importance of capturing Russian soldiers for potential prisoner exchanges. The captured Russian soldiers, some of whom were found in civilian clothing, are treated humanely by Ukrainian forces, who prioritize their survival for future negotiations. Afon noted that while they may have mocked their captives, they refrained from any form of torture, asserting their civilized approach in stark contrast to what they perceive as barbarism from the opposing side. Local residents have expressed their approval of the Ukrainian soldiers, with one elderly woman remarking on their good behavior. Despite the ongoing conflict, Afon and his comrades find the current fighting in Kursk less intense than previous engagements in eastern Ukraine, where they faced relentless Russian assaults. The soldiers are prepared for potential escalations but view their current situation as preferable to the prolonged trench warfare they previously endured. Meanwhile, the local population in the Sumy region has reported increased Russian shelling, raising concerns about the safety of their homes and families.