Ukraine Gains Territory in Surprise Kursk Offensive

Ukraine's surprise offensive into Russia's Kursk region on August 6 has reportedly led to the capture of nearly 400 square miles of territory, nearly equal to the land lost to Russian forces since the beginning of 2024. Russian lawmaker Andrey Gurulyov revealed that Russia's military had prior knowledge of Ukraine's plans but was instructed not to panic. In response to the incursion, the U.S. reaffirmed its policy allowing Ukraine to strike near its borders while maintaining restrictions on long-range attacks deep into Russia. Ukrainian officials argue that unrestricted access to long-range weaponry would enhance their defensive capabilities and reduce the necessity of operations beyond their borders. The secrecy surrounding the operation was a key tactic, with senior military leaders receiving only a few days' notice and troops informed just a day prior to the attack. Observers note that this approach, emphasizing surprise, aligns with historical military strategies that favor confidentiality before major offensives.