Summary

Ukrainian forces launched a major attack in Russia’s Kursk region, reportedly pushing Russian troops onto the defensive, according to pro-Russian military bloggers.

Fighting is concentrated near Bolshoye Soldatskoye, with suggestions of a diversion to target Glushkovo.

Ukrainian President Zelenskiy claimed heavy Russian and North Korean troop losses near Makhnovka.

Ukraine’s incursion since August has provided a potential bargaining chip for peace talks, though it risks weakening its eastern defenses.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian air defenses downed 61 of 103 Russian drones in overnight strikes. Russia has not officially commented on the Kursk developments.