Why holding Kursk region is a priority for Ukraine: an expert explains its importance

For Ukraine, maintaining control over part of Kursk region is a strategic priority on the frontlines. This weakens Russia during any form of negotiations or diplomatic engagements.

Dmytro Zhmailo, Executive Director of the Ukrainian Center for Security and Cooperation, said this on 1+1, on the air of the telethon.

Zhmailo explains why it is crucial for Ukraine's Defense Forces to hold territory in Kursk region:

"The fact that Russia, with its immense resources, and Ukraine, which has received limited international aid and remains far behind Russia in terms of weaponry, has managed to retain 80% of its territory demonstrates our success. Moreover, the fact that Ukraine, with relatively modest resources, still controls 600 square kilometers of Kursk region is a constant testament to Russia's weakness," the expert said.

According to him, as long as Ukrainian forces control even 1 square kilometer of sovereign Russian territory, it will prevent Russia from fully solidifying its "axis of evil." Russia will also continue paying a high price for the loyalty of its allies.

"Combined with the fact that Russians are now essentially fleeing Syria in panic, despite once claiming dominance over that territory and the African continent, all of this will weaken Russia in any format of discussions or negotiations - whether about a ceasefire or a peace agreement. The focus here is less on the size of the captured territory and more on the fact itself: this is David versus Goliath. The fact that we continue to hold on demonstrates the effectiveness of our Defense Forces," Zhmailo said.

He emphasized that for the enemy, eliminating Ukraine’s “ledge” in Kursk region before the inauguration of newly elected U.S. President Donald Trump is critically important.

"Thus, holding onto this piece of Russian territory is a priority for us because it has already become a matter of international diplomacy and the future diplomatic resolution of the conflict," the expert concluded.

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