Ukrainian forces have made significant advances into Russia's Kursk region, capturing approximately 1,000 square kilometers and taking over 100 Russian soldiers prisoner. This offensive, described as the most extensive cross-border attack since World War II, has led to the evacuation of nearly 200,000 people from the region, as acknowledged by Russian authorities. Despite Kyiv's gains, the long-term goals of the operation remain unclear, with questions about whether Ukraine will hold the territory, advance further, or retreat. The assault has strained logistics for both sides, extending the front line and exposing vulnerabilities. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called the operation a 'good advance' and continues to appeal for Western support, while Russian officials downplay the strategic impact and accuse Ukraine of civilian casualties, which Kyiv denies.