**Putin Visits Kursk Oblast for First Time Since Ukraine’s Incursion**
Russian President Vladimir Putin has made his first visit to Russia’s Kursk Oblast since Ukraine launched its cross-border incursion into the region in August 2024. Putin met with military leaders at an undisclosed command post while wearing military attire, a move that mimics Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky‘s style.
According to reports, Putin visited Kursk Oblast on March 12. However, The Kyiv Independent cannot verify the details or location of his visit. The Ukrainian military has not commented on the claims.
The reported visit comes as Russian forces regain control of more than 86% of the territory captured by Ukraine in Kursk Oblast. Ukrainian troops have entered Sudzha, a key stronghold in the region.
**Ukraine’s Military Leader Says No Imminent Threat**
Ukraine’s Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi said on March 10 that there is no immediate threat of encirclement as Ukrainian forces reposition to “favorable defense lines.” He added that Ukraine will hold its defenses in Kursk Oblast “as long as reasonable and necessary.”
**US Secretary of State Calls for Ceasefire**
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on March 12 that the world should aim for a ceasefire where neither side is shooting at each other. However, it’s unclear if Russia will agree to such an arrangement.
**President Zelensky Urges Sober Assessment**
President Volodymyr Zelensky urged a “sober” assessment of the battlefield situation, saying that the military command is doing what it should do – preserving lives. He also stressed that Ukraine will not forget about its fallen heroes and will not let anyone forget about the crime against Ukraine.
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