Ukrainian forces have recently targeted and destroyed three key bridges in Russia’s Kursk region, undermining Russian efforts to retake the area and signaling Ukraine’s intention to hold the territory long-term.

The strikes, confirmed by Ukrainian air force footage and open-source analysts, leave Russian forces reliant on vulnerable pontoon bridges for supplies.

Ukraine now controls over 400 square miles and 80 settlements in Kursk since the invasion began on August 6, capturing over 2,000 prisoners, the Wall Street Journal has reported.

Kyiv hopes to leverage this territory in potential peace negotiations, though Russia claims the invasion complicates any peace talks.

Written by B.C. Begley