This is the first time Ukraine has publicly confirmed the military presence in the opponent's territory. Speaking to the press, Zelensky said the Ukrainian military campaign in Kursk helped reduce pressure in other areas on the battle line, especially in Donetsk. He emphasized the importance of continuing to destroy the equipment and logistics systems that the Russian army is using along the entire route.
Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi also reported on the presence of Ukrainian forces in both Kursk and Belgorod provinces. President Zelensky affirmed: "We continue to conduct active activities in border areas on the territory of the opponent, and this is completely legitimate - the war must return to where it started."
The offensive on Kursk began in August 2024, which was seen as a surprise move from Ukraine. Ukrainian officials said the operation forced Russia to transfer forces from eastern Ukraine. The occupation of some Russian territory is also expected to become an advantage in future negotiations.
After a period of presence in Kursk, Ukraine suddenly shifted its attack direction to Belgorod. Early on March 18, the Ukrainian army launched a surprise attack on Belgorod province, just days after withdrawing from most of Kursk province.
RT channel quoted a statement from the Russian Defense Ministry as saying that the Ukrainian army has carried out 5 cross-border attacks targeting the villages of Demidovka and Prilesye, with the participation of about 200 soldiers and 29 combat vehicles, including 5 tanks, 16 armored personnel carriers and 3 engineering vehicles.
Ukrainian military vehicles are identified as carrying the white triangle tactical symbol, a symbol that has been used in the Kursk operation since last year. Some videos circulating online show Ukrainian armored vehicles, including Bradley infantry fighting vehicles, overcoming concrete obstacles at the border. However, many vehicles were hit by Russian artillery shelling, mined or attacked by drones.
Ukrainian defense analyst Yan Matveev said that Ukraine's main offensive orientation has shifted from Mariino in Sumy province, crossing the border into Demidovka, expanding the war deeper into Russian territory.
