Summary:

Ukraine’s military has captured 74 settlements in Russia’s Kursk region, advancing into new territories.
US President Joe Biden states that Ukraine’s incursion has created a dilemma for Russian President Putin, while Russia moves troops from Kaliningrad and criticizes international reactions.
Heavy shelling continues in Ukraine and Russia, with casualties reported and intensified fighting at multiple fronts.

As the conflict marks its 901st day, significant developments have unfolded in the war between Ukraine and Russia. On August 14, 2024, the situation remains tense and rapidly evolving.

In the Kursk region, Ukraine’s Armed Forces have made notable progress, capturing 74 settlements and expanding their control by 40 square kilometers in just one day. This incursion has drawn a strong response from Russian officials.

Major General Apti Alaudinov reported that Russian forces have managed to halt the Ukrainian advance, repelling attacks near the border. Kursk Governor Alexei Smirnov has urged residents to remain patient, emphasizing that the crisis is ongoing.

In the United States, President Joe Biden acknowledged the complexity the Ukrainian advances have created for Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Biden stated that he is being updated frequently on the situation but clarified that the US was not involved in planning or executing the Ukrainian attack. Meanwhile, Lithuanian Defense Minister Laurynas Kasciunas revealed that Russia is redeploying troops from Kaliningrad to Kursk.

Russia’s criticism of Ukraine’s allies for not condemning the incursion led to a heated debate at the UN Security Council, where some members accused Russia of hypocrisy and wasting the council’s time.

On the ground in Ukraine, the situation is dire. Russian shelling in the Sumy region has resulted in casualties, with at least one person killed and two injured. Ukrainian authorities reported 45 attacks in one day, including strikes from guided bombs and drones. The Ukrainian military has restricted civilian movement in a 20-kilometer zone along the border due to increased hostilities and the activation of Russian reconnaissance groups.

In eastern Ukraine, Russian shelling has resulted in two deaths and 30 injuries in Lysychansk, while intense fighting continues on the Pokrovsk front. Ukrainian forces reported 52 battles in the area over the past 24 hours. Additionally, Russia launched 38 drones and two Iskander-M missiles overnight, with Ukrainian Air Force successfully intercepting 30 of the drones.

In diplomatic developments, Andriy Yermak, chief of staff to Ukraine’s president, announced plans for a follow-up conference to June’s peace summit in Switzerland. This online meeting will focus on energy security, reflecting the ongoing international efforts to address the broader implications of the conflict.