Ukraine Targets Key Bridges in Russia, Isolating Soldiers, Analysts Say

Ukraine has reportedly targeted key bridges over the Seym River in Russia’s Kursk region with the aim of isolating Russian military forces and bolstering its own defenses. Military analysts highlight that these actions are part of a broader strategy by Ukraine to create a secure buffer zone amid ongoing tensions with Russia.

The recent offensive phase began on August 6, when Ukrainian troops launched a surprise operation that resulted in the seizure of approximately 386 miles of territory within a short span. Movement into Russian-occupied territory has been notably aggressive, with Ukrainian forces expanding their control further into the region.

During the past weekend, Ukraine allegedly struck two bridges near the Seym River: one in the Glushkovsky district and another in the village of Svannoe, as per reports from Russian officials. Footage purportedly showing these strikes was shared by Mykola Oleshchuk, the Commander of the Ukrainian Air Force, although specific locations of the strikes were not detailed.

In addition, Russian military bloggers have claimed that a third bridge in the village of Karyzh was also hit by Ukrainian forces. However, independent verification of these reports has not been possible, leaving some uncertainty regarding the exact developments.

Strategic analysis indicates that the destruction of these bridges could significantly disrupt Russian supply lines, effectively cutting off forces stationed south of the river from vital military resources. This could facilitate Ukraine’s efforts to consolidate its position in the area.

Alex Kokcharov, a risk analyst at S&P Global Market Intelligence, highlighted that Russian forces now rely on a singular makeshift pontoon bridge for resupplying their units. He also pointed out that this bridge falls within the range of Ukrainian artillery, heightening the risks for Russian soldiers attempting to cross.

Independent security analyst Jimmy Rushton echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that the destruction of these strategic passages seriously complicates logistical operations for Russia. He characterized the situation as isolating Russian forces on the “wrong side of the river.”

John Hardie, deputy director of the Russia Program at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, emphasized that Ukraine’s intentions behind targeting these bridges are to widen its operational flanks in the Kursk region. He explained that by removing these transportation routes, Ukraine can bolster its defenses and utilize the river as a natural barrier against potential assaults.

In a recent address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reiterated the goal of establishing a “buffer zone” in the Kursk region, which he identified as crucial for national security.

Military analyst Emil Kastehelmi from the Finland-based Black Bird Group noted that Ukraine appears to be assessing avenues for continuing its offensive in Kursk. He specifically mentioned the Tetkino-Glushkovo axis as a potential line of advancement. Kastehelmi assessed that while immediate strategic objectives in Kursk might be limited, operational victories are still sought after.

He further suggested that the operation against the Glushkovo area is a critical endeavor for Ukraine, as it represents a plan to achieve significant gains without incurring high casualties. Though the destruction of bridges is part of Ukraine’s strategy to control the area, Kastehelmi warned that Russia is likely preparing to counter this by constructing additional temporary bridges across the river.

Despite the challenging logistics presented by the damaged infrastructure, Kastehelmi mentioned that the Seym River, while not insignificant, is not too wide to prevent the construction of new crossings for Russian troops.

As the conflict persists, the actions taken by both sides are closely monitored, with implications that could reverberate beyond the immediate theater of war.

Source: Business Insider