Janice R. Andrews
Russia’s large-scale counter-offensive in the Kursk region, partly under Ukrainian control since August, is reportedly faltering. President Vladimir Putin aims to strengthen his negotiating position before Donald Trump possibly assumes office. The operation includes a massive regrouping, with a fifth of North Korea’s forces joining Russian troops. Ukrainian defenders, numbering around 10,000, have well-prepared positions, causing significant resistance.
According to General Dominique Trinquand, Russia has trained North Korean soldiers in artillery fire, infantry tactics, and trench warfare, indicating their likely involvement in direct assaults. However, military analysts suggest the offensive is turning into a fiasco. Ukrainian troops continue to hold their ground, effectively employing “braking” tactics to slow down Russian advances. The ongoing clashes highlight the intensity of the conflict, with Russian forces struggling to regain lost territory.
US officials believe the inclusion of North Korean forces was intended to boost Russia’s combat strength, but the strategy appears to be backfiring, complicating Moscow’s plans for a decisive victory in Kursk. The prolonged fighting indicates significant setbacks for Putin’s broader military objectives.
