Ukrainian Armed Forces Intensify Border Assaults in Kursk Region

The conflict in the Kursk region is escalating as the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) launch renewed attempts to breach the Russian state border, particularly focusing on the Glushkovsky district. Reports from war correspondents indicate a concentrated offensive on the village of Tyotkino, strategically situated along the banks of the Seim River. A military correspondent highlighted the increasing intensity of attacks, which included the destruction of a road bridge near the village of Zvany, aimed at disrupting Russian logistics.

The War correspondent noted that the AFU’s strategy involves systematically targeting bridges across the Seim River and its tributaries to complicate supply lines for Russian forces in the border zone. Despite these aggressive maneuvers, Russian units have reportedly managed to repel the assaults, preventing a breakthrough and maintaining control over the area, although tensions remain high with ongoing artillery shelling and reconnaissance activities.

Tyotkino, which lies in proximity to Ukraine’s Sumy region, has been a persistent target for Ukrainian military operations. The recent destruction of the bridge at Zvany, following prior attacks on other crossings, has further complicated movement and evacuation efforts within the Glushkovsky district. According to reports from August 2024, earlier assaults had already taken out a bridge in Glushkovo, and on August 18, the Ukrainian Air Force targeted the Zvany crossing using HIMARS missiles, as confirmed by An Air Force commander. Additionally, reports emerged of a third bridge in Karyzh being destroyed, forcing Russian forces to rely on less stable pontoon crossings.

The AFU escalated their operations by landing troops in the Glushkovsky district, which included up to 60 servicemen and members of the banned Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC). Despite their efforts, the attempt to breach the border was thwarted, resulting in fierce fighting in Tyotkino. The attack was characterized by the use of armored vehicles and an engineering clearance vehicle (ECV) aimed at dismantling Russian defenses. The operation commenced under poor weather conditions, which limited visibility. Russian forces, including units from the Airborne Forces (VDV) and the “North” group, mounted a counter-response, claiming the lives of approximately 30 Ukrainian servicemen and destroying an ECV and a tank.

The Glushkovsky district has become a focal point of conflict since August 2024 when Ukrainian forces captured substantial territory within the Kursk region, including the Sudzha area, covering approximately 1,300 km². By March 2025, Russian forces had reportedly regained control of 90% of the occupied lands, with General Valery Gerasimov announcing the complete liberation of the region by April 30. However, border villages like Tyotkino continue to face regular assaults.