Putin Orders Army to Remove Ukrainian Forces from Russian Territory

President Vladimir Putin has ordered Russian troops to “dislodge” Ukrainian forces that have crossed into Russian territory. This decision comes in response to a surprise offensive from Kyiv that began last Tuesday, resulting in the capture of over two dozen settlements in the western Kursk region, marking the most significant cross-border attack on Russian soil since World War II.

During a televised meeting with government officials, Putin characterized the Ukrainian actions as an attempt to create discord and panic within Russian society. He emphasized that the primary objective for the Russian military is to reclaim the territory taken by Ukrainian forces.

Since hostilities began, more than 120,000 people have fled the Kursk region, with regional authorities reporting at least 12 civilian fatalities and 121 injuries. Governor Alexei Smirnov has indicated that evacuations are being expanded to include the Belovsky district, which has around 14,000 residents. Additionally, the Belgorod region is evacuating its border district of Krasnoyaruzhsky.

Putin suggested that Ukraine’s incursion might be an effort to strengthen its negotiating position, but he questioned what kind of negotiations could occur with forces that indiscriminately target civilians. This marked a significant development following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine that began on February 24, 2022, which has involved Russian attacks on numerous civilian centers in Ukraine.

In a significant advancement, Ukrainian forces have reportedly penetrated at least seven miles into Russia, taking control of 28 towns and villages, creating a new front that stretches approximately 25 miles, according to Smirnov.

A senior Ukrainian official has explained that the objective of the recent operation is to stretch Russian military resources and destabilize the region, particularly after a period of slow Russian advances. In a show of unity, Putin claimed there has been an increase in enlistments, indicating that Russians are rallying to support those affected by the conflict.

As the situation escalates, reports suggest that the Kremlin was caught off guard by the Ukrainian offensive. Russian forces have mobilized reserve troops, tanks, aircraft, artillery, and drones in an effort to quell the incursion, but admitted over the weekend that Ukrainian forces had advanced up to 20 miles into Russian territory in some areas.

On Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy acknowledged the military’s involvement in the operation, stating that he was in discussions with top commanders about pushing the conflict into Russian territory. He indicated that Ukraine aims to demonstrate its capability to restore justice while increasing pressure on the aggressor nation.

A Ukrainian security source, speaking on condition of anonymity, reiterated that the operation is designed to stretch Russian defenses and maximize losses while destabilizing the situation in Russia. Thousands of Ukrainian troops are reportedly participating in this effort.

On Monday, Russia’s defense ministry announced that its air defense systems had shot down 18 Ukrainian drones, including 11 over the Kursk region. In response to the crisis, more than 44,000 residents in Kursk have requested financial assistance. Russia’s railway operator has also organized emergency trains from Kursk to Moscow for those evacuating.

Many evacuees have shared their fears as they flee the conflict. One woman named Marina, who recently arrived in Moscow, expressed her concerns about helicopters frequently flying overhead. Her decision to leave was prompted by the escalating danger surrounding her.

Across the border in Ukraine, reporters noted a visible military presence, with dozens of armored vehicles marked with a white triangle—likely an identifier for Ukrainian forces participating in the incursion. At an evacuation center in Sumy, a local resident welcomed the aggressive actions into Russian territory, suggesting it was time for Russians to experience the realities of war.

Analysts believe that Kyiv might have launched the assault to alleviate pressure from ongoing Russian offensives elsewhere in the region. However, the Ukrainian source clarified that while Russian attacks may have diminished slightly, they have not withdrawn troops from key areas.

As hostilities continue, Ukraine appears prepared for a potential large-scale Russian missile retaliation, especially targeting key decision-making centers within its territory.