By G. Mudalige, Jadetimes Staff
G. Mudalige is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Technology & Innovation
Ukraine’s top military commander, Oleksandr Syrskii, has defended Kyiv’s offensive in Russia’s Kursk region, stating that the operation is achieving its objectives despite difficulties in eastern Ukraine. Launched on August 6, the Kursk offensive has allowed Ukrainian forces to capture significant territory and halt Russia’s progress toward the strategic town of Pokrovsk.
Although Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed that the incursion weakened Ukraine's defenses in Donetsk, Syrskii insists that the Kursk strategy has succeeded in reducing Russia's artillery shelling and mobility, preventing them from advancing toward Pokrovsk for the past six days. The situation in Pokrovsk, however, remains challenging as Russian forces continue to press forward, claiming territorial gains and evacuating tens of thousands of residents from surrounding areas.
Ukraine is also increasing diplomatic efforts to secure more air defense systems and long-range weaponry from its Western allies. With rising casualties and destruction from Russian missile strikes, the need for enhanced military capabilities is urgent. The United Kingdom recently announced the supply of 650 lightweight multirole missile (LMM) systems, expected to bolster Ukraine’s air defense by the end of the year.
These developments are expected to feature prominently during the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting in Germany, where Ukraine will further push for increased military aid from international partners. Syrskii remains optimistic that the Kursk offensive will yield long-term success in slowing Russia’s advance, though challenges in eastern Ukraine persist.
