The battle for Kursk: How Russian soldiers crushed Ukrainian defenses in Sudzha

Moscow’s decisive offensive in Kursk Region is entering its final stage, seven months after Ukraine launched a surprise attack and seized part of its territory. The situation bears resemblance to the events around Kharkov – on the other side of the border – in 2022, when Russia forces made a hasty retreat.

However, this time, the roles are reversed. The Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) find themselves unable to contain the swift movements of Russian troops, chaotically backpedalling while their commander-in-chief describes the situation as a “planned regrouping to advantageous positions.”

The so-called Sudzha foothold – named after the eponymous town and long considered Kiev’s key bargaining chip with Moscow – collapsed.

The Russian military has dislodged remaining Ukrainian forces from the town, the Defense Ministry in Moscow has announced on Thursday…