Ukrainian soldiers attack Belgorod; Russia's gains slow

Moscow reported on Tuesday that over 200 Ukrainian soldiers launched an attack into the Belgorod region, which borders Ukraine. This comes as Russia's advances in Ukraine are said to be slowing down. Ukrainian forces are maintaining operations in Belgorod while retreating from Kursk, which is also near the border. Kyiv had surprised Moscow with an incursion into Kursk in August 2024. They quickly took control of areas close to the border. While Russian and North Korean troops have regained some territory, Russia has struggled to push Ukrainian forces from the key town of Sudzha. A new Russian offensive began earlier this month to try to regain ground. The territories held by Ukraine give President Volodymyr Zelensky leverage in ceasefire talks, especially concerning territorial disputes. As Ukraine’s control over Kursk diminished, Moscow reported that Ukrainian forces were conducting cross-border attacks in Belgorod. These attacks targeted two villages in the region, Demidovka and Prilesye. Russian military sources mentioned that Ukraine deployed around 200 soldiers and five tanks for the attacks. Military bloggers from Russia claimed that Moscow continues to send troops to Belgorod to respond to these threats. The situation in Belgorod is dynamic, as Ukrainian forces appear to be trying to exploit Russian positions along the border. Recent reports indicate that Russian forces have made minimal territorial gains in Ukraine, controlling only 22.5 square kilometers between March 10 and March 16. Despite ongoing attacks in Kursk, Russian forces have not significantly advanced in the region. Meanwhile, Ukrainian troops have carried out limited attacks in Belgorod. The fighting is expected to continue on both sides of the border, coinciding with talks involving U.S. teams that are set to begin in Saudi Arabia.