Kursk, Sep 13 (V7N)- Russian forces have initiated a significant counter-offensive to reclaim areas in the border region of Kursk that were occupied by Ukrainian forces last month, according to pro-Russian military bloggers and a senior Russian commander. The operation comes after Ukraine made a surprise move in early August, capturing several areas within Russian territory.

The Guardian reported that heavy fighting is ongoing in the occupied areas of the Kursk region. Pro-Ukrainian observers confirmed that Russian troops may have successfully retaken some villages. The Russian Ministry of Defence announced that Ukrainian forces were forced to retreat south of Snagost, near the Malaya Loknaya River, and that Russian troops had liberated multiple villages. However, these claims could not be independently verified, and Ukraine has yet to comment on the situation.

In addition to the land conflict, air operations have intensified. Ukraine's Air Force stated on Thursday that it had shot down 44 of 64 drones launched by Russia on Wednesday night, with Russian forces also launching five missiles.

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) advised caution in drawing conclusions about the Russian counter-offensive, acknowledging that several villages were captured by Russian forces on 10 and 11 September in the northeast and south of Kurenevo.

Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continue as British Foreign Secretary David Lammy and US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken concluded their visit to Kiev, meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Both officials returned to Poland early Thursday after travelling by train from the Ukrainian capital.

END/AJ/SMA