Ukrainian troops advance into Russia near Vesoloe amid air support

On September 15, 2024, Ukrainian combat engineers successfully breached Russian defenses near Novyi Put, approximately 20 miles from a significant Ukrainian salient in Russia's Kursk Oblast. This operation marked a new phase of military engagement, with Ukrainian forces utilizing tanks and air support to advance into Russian territory. A notable airstrike involved a Ukrainian fighter-bomber deploying a U.S.-made Joint Direct Attack Munition on a Russian position in central Vesoloe, resulting in the destruction of a building. The Khorne Group, a Ukrainian drone unit, monitored the airstrike and shared their observations on social media, highlighting the ongoing conflict's intensity. The Russian military's reliance on conscripts, particularly young and inexperienced soldiers, has raised concerns about their defensive capabilities. This situation has been exacerbated by the rapid Ukrainian advances, which have taken advantage of the Russian forces' vulnerabilities. The Khorne Group's taunts about the need for more conscripts and paratroopers underscore the morale and psychological aspects of the conflict. While the specific Ukrainian units involved in the Vesoloe incursion remain unclear, the presence of Turkish-made Kirpi armored trucks suggests that the Ukrainian marine corps may be participating in this operation. The developments in Vesoloe signal a significant escalation in the conflict, with implications for both military strategy and the broader geopolitical landscape. The ongoing hostilities reflect the challenges faced by Russian forces and the determination of Ukrainian troops to reclaim territory and assert their military capabilities.