Border breach in Kursk region has military and political effects: Experts' analysis
Illustrative photo: The breach in the Kursk region has military and political implications for Ukraine (Getty Images)
The breach of the border in the Kursk region, which is rumored to have been organized by the Ukrainian military, has both a military and political effect, stated Oleksandr Musiienko, head of the Center for Military and Legal Studies, and Volodymyr Fesenko, head of the Center for Applied Political Surveys Penta, in a commentary to RBC-Ukraine.
As Musiienko noted, the military effect of the breach of the border is that, first, it hinders the shelling of the Sumy region and the infiltration of enemy sabotage-reconnaissance groups. Second, such actions disorient the enemy and divert their forces and attention from eastern Ukraine. Third, enemy manpower and equipment are being destroyed in the Kursk region.
According to him, the political effect is to demonstrate to skeptics that Ukraine can seize the initiative in the war.
"And also, I believe, it's a step towards a stronger position at the next Peace Summit. Essentially, Ukraine is showing that it can set its conditions and put the Russians in a position where they have no choice but to make concessions," Musiienko clarified.
For his part, Fesenko emphasized that it is important for Ukraine to show the capability to shift the war to Russian territory and that such a scenario will not lead to catastrophic consequences. This could impact the assessments of Western partners who are concerned about the possibility of escalation.
According to the head of the Center for Applied Political Surveys Penta, the political outcome is already evident - the US and the EU have stated that Ukraine has the right to defend itself using such methods.
"This is important in terms of preparing our allies for the possibility of at least partially lifting restrictions on the use of weapons for strikes against Russia. Until now, we were informally recommended not to cross the border. But now, I would say, we are removing the psychological barrier," the political scientist explained.
Fighting in the Kursk region
It is reported that active combat continues in the border areas of the Kursk region following rumors that Ukrainian forces have entered the area.
According to Telegram channel reports, the Ukrainian forces have taken control of several settlements and are advancing.
Meanwhile, official Ukrainian representatives are refraining from making comments.
For a more detailed analysis of how these events might affect Ukraine's position in the war, see the material by RBC-Ukraine.
