The Use of Western-Made Rocket Launchers in the Kursk Region

Russia’s foreign ministry recently accused Ukraine of using Western rockets, specifically U.S.-made HIMARS, to destroy a bridge over the Seym river in the Kursk region. The attack resulted in the death of volunteers who were assisting in the evacuation of civilians. This marked the first time the Kursk region had been targeted with Western-made rocket launchers, according to Maria Zakharova, the spokeswoman for the Russian foreign ministry.

In response to the accusations, Ukrainian army chief Oleksandr Syrskyi claimed that Kyiv’s forces had been advancing between 1 and 3 kilometers in some areas of the Kursk region. The incursion into the region began 11 days prior, and Kyiv asserted that they had taken control of 82 settlements over an area of 1,150 square kilometers since August 6. It is important to note that Reuters could not independently verify the accounts provided by either side regarding the battlefield developments.

Russia, in turn, accused the West of supporting and encouraging Ukraine’s first ground offensive on Russian territory. They stated that Kyiv’s actions would not alter the course of the ongoing war. The United States, on the other hand, viewed Ukraine’s incursion as a protective move justified by the need to prevent Russian President Vladimir Putin from achieving victory in the conflict that began in February 2022. Russia vowed to respond to what they deemed a “major provocation” by Ukraine.

According to Russia’s Defence Ministry, Ukrainian attacks were repelled in various areas, including near the villages of Gordeevka and Russkoe Porechnoe. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy described Russia’s losses in the Kursk region as beneficial for Ukraine’s defence strategy, particularly in terms of disrupting the logistics and reserves of the Russian army. Kyiv Air Force commander Mykola Oleshchuk highlighted the role of aviation in targeting the enemy’s supply routes and logistics centers.

Although the Kursk region saw significant fighting, the heaviest clashes remained concentrated in eastern Ukraine, where Russian forces had been steadily advancing towards the strategic hub of Pokrovsk. Analysts suggested that one of the objectives of the Kursk operation was to divert Russian forces from the east, but there was no indication of a slowdown in the region. Russian troops were reportedly close to the outskirts of Pokrovsk and the nearby city of Myrnohrad.

As the conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate, the use of Western-made rocket launchers in the Kursk region has intensified tensions between Russia and Ukraine. The conflicting reports from both sides, coupled with the international responses to the situation, underscore the complexities of the ongoing war. The developments on the ground reflect the strategic maneuvers of both Ukraine and Russia as they vie for control and dominance in the region. The future remains uncertain as the conflict shows no signs of abating.