Ukraine Strikes Key Russian Bridges, Disrupting Supply Routes in Kursk

In a significant development, Ukrainian forces have successfully targeted and destroyed key bridges in Russia's Kursk region, disrupting vital supply routes. This operation, occurring less than two weeks into Ukraine's cross-border incursion, marks a notable escalation in the ongoing conflict.

The first bridge, spanning the Seim River near Glushkovo, was struck on Friday, August 16, 2024. Lt. Mykola Oleshchuk, Ukraine's air force chief, released footage of the airstrike that split the bridge in two. A second bridge was reportedly hit within 48 hours, further complicating Russia's logistics in the area.

These strategic strikes have potentially severe implications for Russian forces. The destruction of these bridges impedes the delivery of supplies to troops attempting to repel Ukraine's incursion. While alternative methods such as pontoon bridges could be employed, these are typically more vulnerable and less efficient.

The Ukrainian offensive has made significant progress, with Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, Ukraine's Commander in Chief, claiming an advance across 1,000 square kilometers of the Kursk region. This operation bears similarities to Ukraine's successful September 2022 campaign in the Kharkiv region, which resulted in the reclamation of substantial territory.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the President of Ukraine since 2019, has called upon Kyiv's allies to remove restrictions on the use of Western weapons for striking targets deeper within Russia. On Saturday night, August 17, 2024, Zelenskyy emphasized the potential to deprive Moscow of its ability to advance and cause destruction if granted sufficient long-range capabilities.

"It is crucial that our partners remove barriers that hinder us from weakening Russian positions in the way this war demands. ... The bravery of our soldiers and the resilience of our combat brigades compensate for the lack of essential decisions from our partners."

The conflict has seen the use of various advanced weapons systems. There are unverified claims that U.S.-made HIMARS launchers were used in the bridge attacks. These high-mobility artillery rocket systems, developed in the late 1990s, have proven highly effective in modern warfare.

Meanwhile, Russia has intensified its attacks on Kyiv. Early on Sunday, August 18, 2024, the Ukrainian capital faced missile strikes, reportedly using KN-23 missiles supplied by North Korea. This marks the third such attack on Kyiv this month. Ukrainian air defenses claim to have intercepted all targets in both Sunday morning attacks.

The ongoing conflict continues to evolve, with both sides employing increasingly sophisticated tactics and weaponry. As Ukraine demonstrates its ability to strike within Russian territory, the international community watches closely, aware of the potential for further escalation in this protracted war.