Kiev/Ukraine: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has publicly confirmed for the first time that Ukrainian troops are present in the Belgorod region of Russia. This is a big setback for Russia as it is considered to be the biggest strategic change so far in this war that started about three and a quarter years ago. Last month, Russia had reported intensifying attacks in this region and since then there were speculations that Ukrainian troops could be present in Belgorod. If Ukrainian troops take control of Belgorod, it will be a big setback for Russian President Vladimir Putin. Zelensky on Monday confirmed Ukrainian military action in Kursk and Belgorod, saying, "We are conducting active operations in the border areas on enemy territory and this is absolutely justified. The war must return to where it started."
This statement of the Ukrainian President is very important in terms of strategy, as this is the first time since the start of the war in 2022 that he has mentioned the presence of troops in this area. This statement is also considered an attempt to challenge Russia's domestic security and put the Putin administration under strategic pressure. In March this year, the Russian military confirmed that the Ukrainian army had launched ground attacks in Belgorod. The DeepState Military Blog, which is believed to have close ties to the Ukrainian army, has reported that Ukrainian troops have occupied an area of 13 square kilometers in Russian territory near the border village of Demidovka.
Ukrainian army in Belgorod, a big blow to Russia
Let us tell you that Belgorod is a border area located in the western region of Russia which is adjacent to Kharkiv in Ukraine. The area was targeted several times by Ukrainian-backed Russian insurgent groups, but this is the first time that the direct presence of the Ukrainian army has been acknowledged. Belgorod's geographical location turns it into a strategic area, forcing Russia to increase security in its own areas. About 1.5 million people live in Belgorod. This area has been a regular target for Ukraine since the war began. The area is close to Kursk, which Kiev has been trying to capture since launching a surprise attack last year.
However, according to reports, Ukraine's operation in Belgorod is considered to be much smaller than its activities in Kursk, where Kiev managed to capture several villages, including the city of Sudja. President Zelensky and his senior military officials have repeatedly said that these incursions have put pressure on Moscow to withdraw troops from Donetsk, where the Russian army has been slowly but steadily occupying different areas in recent months. Zelensky's announcement will have an impact on Russia's internal politics as well as internationally. First of all, it will shake the image of Russia as an 'invincible fortress'. Second, it shows Western allies that Ukraine is no longer just defending, but has adopted an offensive strategy. It also signals to the US and NATO that their military aid is now being used in offensive operations, which may lead to a surge in arms supplies.
