In a significant development in the ongoing war, Ukrainian forces captured 102 Russian soldiers in the largest mass surrender since the conflict began, during a surprise incursion in the Kursk region on August 14. Reports indicate that the soldiers surrendered after being abandoned by their commanders, who fled the battlefield. Ukrainian media highlighted that the surrender occurred at a fortified underground facility stocked with ammunition, where the captured soldiers were filmed lying with their hands on their heads. This event has been described as a serious blow to Russian military morale, particularly affecting combat readiness. Additionally, Ukraine's military has made substantial territorial gains in the region, further straining Russian President Vladimir Putin's position. The situation has prompted discussions of potential prisoner exchanges, marking a shift in Russia's previously stagnant stance on negotiations.