**Ukrainian Troops Hold Ground in Kursk Despite Russian Reinforcements**
Despite Russia’s strengthened defenses, Ukrainian forces are maintaining a foothold in the Kursk region. According to Reserve Major Oleksii Hetman, Ukraine is employing guerrilla tactics that allow them to resist the superior Russian forces.
**Guerrilla Warfare and Mobility**
Hetman explains that by avoiding direct engagements with the Russian army, which outnumber them tenfold, Ukrainian troops are able to minimize losses and maintain control over significant territory. He compares their strategy to guerrilla warfare, where mobile units target enemy positions from unexpected angles, causing maximum damage without engaging in open battles.
**Russian Reinforcements**
Russia has recently increased its troop presence in the region, but Hetman believes that the current forces deployed are not sufficient to reclaim Kursk Oblast. However, he warns that a significant increase in Russian reinforcements would make it impossible for Ukrainian forces to hold onto the territory.
**Strategic Importance of Kursk**
Hetman emphasizes the strategic importance of Kursk Oblast to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Ukraine’s control over Russian territory is seen as a “significant bargaining chip” in potential negotiations to end the war. If Russia fails to reclaim these areas, it would undermine Putin’s authority and make him appear weak in front of the international community.
**Intensified Fighting Ahead**
Hetman predicts that fighting in Kursk Oblast will intensify, with Russia possibly deploying substantial reinforcements to counter Ukraine’s guerrilla tactics.