 |
| People evacuated from a fighting between Russian and Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region sit next to tents at a temporary residence center in Kursk, Russia, on Monday, August 12. |
U kraine has intensified its military operations in Russia's Kursk region, seizing hundreds of square miles of territory in a surprise cross-border assault that began last week, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The offensive has prompted a regional emergency declaration in Russia's Belgorod region.
Zelensky reported that Ukrainian forces have captured 100 Russian servicemen, a move he believes will expedite the return of Ukrainian prisoners. He emphasized that Ukraine does not seek to annex Russian territory but aims to bolster morale, distract Russian forces, and establish a “security zone” to safeguard Ukraine’s border areas.
In response, Russian President Vladimir Putin has vowed to expel Ukrainian forces, asserting that peace talks with Ukraine are "on a long pause." Russia is struggling to contain the Ukrainian advance and has implemented a mandatory evacuation for the border village of Glushkovo in Kursk. The evacuation is being managed by local officials, law enforcement, and the Russian military.
To assist those affected, Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk announced a 24-hour hotline for Kursk residents seeking evacuation or humanitarian aid. The hotline, managed by Ukraine’s Ministry of Reintegration, reflects Ukraine’s adherence to international humanitarian law and commitment to protecting civilians.
Russian authorities have yet to disclose the number of individuals impacted by the evacuation order. Meanwhile, Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights Dmytro Lubinets has confirmed ongoing discussions with his Russian counterpart regarding the treatment of prisoners of war (POWs). Lubinets assured that Ukrainian forces are complying with the Geneva Conventions, providing humane treatment to captured Russian soldiers.
Ukraine is prepared to continue prisoner exchange processes and is distributing humanitarian aid to civilians in affected areas. Lubinets also mentioned that evacuation corridors would be established if requested by local populations.
0 Comments