Ukraine’s recent attack on Kursk has caused concern among Russian elites and raised questions about Vladimir Putin’s grip on power, according to CIA director William Burns. Along with MI6 chief Sir Richard Moore, Burns emphasized the importance of resisting Putin’s war in Ukraine and warned of the growing defense relationship between Russia, Iran, China, and North Korea. Meanwhile, US prosecutors have brought new charges against members of Russia’s military intelligence service for engaging in a hacking campaign to sow concern among Ukrainian citizens about their government’s cybersecurity. Since the attack began on August 6, Russian forces have advanced towards the eastern Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk, a key logistical hub for the country’s military. Its capture could have a costly effect on Ukraine’s ability to defend itself.
