Ukraine's Surprise Incursion: Massive Drone Strikes and Captive Russian Soldiers

Ukraine's forces have carried out a surprise invasion of Russian territory, conducting massive drone strikes and capturing Russian soldiers in the Kursk region. Amid ongoing fighting, Ukraine targets military and government sites in at least four other western regions.

Ukraine's defense ministry released footage showcasing its troops taking Russian soldiers captive in the Kursk region. As the war escalates, Ukraine has intensified its efforts to bring the conflict onto Russian soil.

In the Kursk region, Russian installations have come under Ukrainian drone attacks, including an ammunition depot and warehouse in Lipetsk, resulting in the destruction of approximately 700 guided bombs. An energy facility was also hit, disrupting power supplies. Additionally, a military airfield reportedly caught fire following a strike that intercepted 19 drones.

Ukraine's Surprise Incursion: Massive Drone Strikes and Captive Russian Soldiers

Local media reported that another 26 drones were shot down in the Belogorod region, while Russia's defense ministry claimed to have downed 75 drones overnight in border regions and five more over occupied Crimea.

Moscow has declared a state of emergency in Kursk, acknowledging that Ukrainian forces are approaching the strategic town of Sudzha. Open-source reporting indicates that Ukraine has captured a military checkpoint and the Sudzha gas-distribution station.

Ukraine's Surprise Incursion: Massive Drone Strikes and Captive Russian Soldiers

Footage circulated by pro-Russia military bloggers depicts the aftermath of an ambush by Ukrainian forces on a Russian convoy, leaving burned-out vehicles and casualties. Up to 400 Russian soldiers were killed in a HIMARS missile strike in the Kursk region.

Ukraine's objectives in targeting Russian territory remain unclear, but sources suggest it may be attempting to divert Russian resources from the front lines. Moscow's defenses within its borders are expected to be weak due to its focus on the eastern flank of Ukraine.

Ukraine's Surprise Incursion: Massive Drone Strikes and Captive Russian Soldiers

President Zelenskyy has not commented on the Russian invasion, adhering to Kyiv's policy of silence during operations. However, he stated in a Thursday night address, "Russia brought war to our land, and it should feel what it has done."

The Biden administration has reportedly approved Ukraine's use of US weapons to attack Russian targets beyond its borders. Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Singh confirmed that Ukraine has permission to target strategic sites in Russian territory, provided they are not deep within the country.

Ukraine's Surprise Incursion: Massive Drone Strikes and Captive Russian Soldiers

Despite requests for specific limitations on cross-border attacks, Singh declined to provide details, stating that Ukraine has been informed of the parameters.