**Russia’s Claim of Taking Kursk Oblast Contradicted by Ukrainian Authorities**
The acting commander of Russia’s 810th Brigade of the Black Sea Fleet has reportedly told Russian President Vladimir Putin that Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region will soon be destroyed. However, this statement contradicts an earlier report by Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov that Russian forces have fully recaptured the territory.
This discrepancy highlights the ongoing confusion and conflicting claims regarding the situation on the ground in Kursk Oblast, a border region between Russia and Ukraine that has been partially held by Ukrainian forces since last August. According to President Volodymyr Zelensky, fighting in Kursk Oblast continues, with Ukrainian troops engaged in active defensive operations.
**Ukraine Denies Russian Claims**
The Ukrainian military has denied the Kremlin’s claim of recapturing the territory, stating that “our units continue to hold certain positions and carry out tasks as assigned.” A military source also told The Kyiv Independent that Ukraine continues to hold territories in Kursk Oblast. This contradicts Russia’s claims that the area is fully under their control.
**North Korean Troops Involved**
For the first time, Russian Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov has acknowledged the participation of North Korean troops in the campaign. He praised their “fortitude and heroism,” though the actual number of North Korean troops involved remains unclear. Ukraine and Seoul have previously estimated that around 11,000 North Korean soldiers are fighting alongside Russian forces.
**Conflicting Claims**
The conflicting claims from both sides demonstrate the complexity and uncertainty surrounding the situation in Kursk Oblast. While Russia’s claims of recapturing the territory may be exaggerated or intentionally misleading, Ukrainian authorities remain committed to defending their positions and repelling Russian advances. As the conflict continues to unfold, it is essential to scrutinize all claims carefully and seek reliable sources for accurate information.
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