08 Aug 2024 | 08:40 PM UTC
Russia, Ukraine: Combat reportedly continuing along shared border between Russia's Kursk Oblast and Ukraine's Sumy Region as of Aug. 8 /update 2
Military operations likely to continue near border between Russia's Kursk Oblast and Ukraine's Sumy Region as of Aug. 8.
Military operations have been reported near the towns of Korenevo, Cheremoshki, Sudzha, and Shagarovo in Russia's Kursk Oblast, which borders Ukraine's Sumy Region, as of late Aug. 8. Russian and Ukrainian sources have issued conflicting reports; however, it is likely that a group of up to 1,000 Ukrainian soldiers supported by roughly several dozen tanks and armored vehicles crossed the border early on Aug. 6. Ukrainian forces appear to have rapidly advanced in multiple directions, and as of late Aug. 8, are estimated to control at least 350 sq. km (135 sq. miles) of Russian territory. Ukrainian authorities were reportedly in control of at least 11 settlements as of late Aug. 8. Russian authorities report that at least civilians 5 have died and 66 have been injured as of late Aug. 8. Additionally, water, electricity, and telecommunications outages are reported near the combat areas. Additionally, Russian Railways announced the closure of the Sudzha, Korenevo, and Psel railway stations.
Authorities in Kursk Oblast announced the implementation of a state of emergency on Aug. 7. Russian authorities have issued missile alert warnings in the Sudzhansky and Korenevsky districts, which both border Ukraine's Sumy Region. Russian missile strikes and airstrikes targeted the Sumy Region, including Sumy City, on Aug. 6 and 7, causing infrastructure damage but no confirmed civilian casualties. Military losses on both sides remain unclear.
Artillery fire, aerial attacks, and ground combat operations will likely continue in the coming days. Strikes may cause building damage and civilian casualties. Russian authorities will likely launch counterattacks in the area in the coming hours or days. Counteroffensive operations could prompt increased security and the evacuation of civilians from surrounding areas. Either party may expand military operations in response to conditions on the ground.
Avoid travel to active conflict zones in Russia's Kursk Oblast or to border areas in Ukraine's Sumy Region. Consider leaving these areas by available ground transport if safe to do so. Exercise extreme caution if operating anywhere in the region. You should shelter in place if there is fighting or airstrikes in the area. Stay away from windows and exterior walls if officials report incoming rocket or artillery fire. Follow the instructions of local security personnel, especially when instructed to seek refuge in air-raid shelters. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations. Due to the threat of unexploded ordnance (UXO), avoid off-road travel. Travel on well-used routes only. Do not approach suspected UXO.
Though not the first incursion into Russian territory from Ukraine, the ongoing operation differs from previous ones in two key respects: firstly, previous raids featured smaller numbers of fighters and armored vehicles. Secondly, and most crucially, initial reports indicate that the Armed Forces of Ukraine is conducting the current operation. This strongly contrasts with previous incursions, which were conducted by Ukraine-based Russian militant groups (primarily the Russian Volunteer Corps and Freedom of Legion.) Although the aims and true extent of the ongoing activities remain unclear, the direct involvement of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and alleged heavy vehicle deployments imply that the current operation aims merely to cause short-term disruptions before retreating to safer territory. Additionally, the speed with which Ukrainian forces reportedly advanced Aug. 7-8 implies larger troop deployments than initially reported, and several thousand Ukrainian military personnel may be taking part in the operation.
