Ukrainian Forces Advance to Russian Town Within 7 Hours’ Drive from Moscow

Advances and Occupied Settlements: Since launching their armored assault on Kursk, Ukrainian forces have reportedly occupied at least 11 settlements, including the Sudzha gas measuring facility, which plays a crucial role in facilitating the flow of Russian gas to Europe. These gains have resulted in Russia losing control over an estimated area of 350 square kilometers, roughly the size of Atlanta, according to investigative Russian outlet Agentstvo. However, Newsweek has been unable to independently verify this information. The Drive to Korenevo and Pushback: Russian Telegram channel Two Majors reported that Ukrainian forces managed to reach the town of Korenevo, which is situated approximately seven to eight hours away from Moscow. However, they were subsequently pushed back by Russian troops. The accuracy of this claim remains unverified, and attempts have been made to seek comment from Russia's Defense Ministry. Speculation and Potential Objectives: There have been speculations, primarily from Russian military bloggers, that Ukrainian forces may be planning to take control of the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant in Kurchatov. However, there is currently no evidence to support this theory. The situation remains tense, with reports of a "rifle battle" underway in the nearby village of Anastasyevka, close to the nuclear plant. Insights from Ukrainian Presidential Adviser: After a period of silence, Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak shed some light on the objectives of Kyiv's armored assault. He revealed that the incursion was launched to bolster Ukraine's position in future negotiations with Russia. Podolyak stated that the losses suffered by Russia in terms of territory, personnel, and equipment would have a positive impact on potential future negotiations. Additionally, he suggested that Ukraine's advances into Russian territory would serve to "scare" Russians and further sour their opinion of Russian President Vladimir Putin.