Russia firmly rejected any prospects for peace talks with Ukraine on Monday, despite Kyiv’s increased pressure through its ongoing offensive into Russian territory. The conflict has intensified following Ukraine’s surprise incursion into Russia’s Kursk region on August 6, marking the most significant attack on Russian soil since World War II.
President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that Ukraine has gained control over more than 1,250 square kilometers (480 square miles) and 92 settlements. He emphasized that Ukraine’s objectives include stretching Russian forces, creating a buffer zone in Russian territory, and seeking a resolution to the war on “fair” terms.
In a speech to diplomats, Zelensky called for enhanced international support, including the provision of long-range weapons to counteract Russian advances and to halt the conflict in eastern Ukraine. He criticized the delay in delivering such capabilities, suggesting it supports Russia’s offensive in the eastern Donetsk region.
Zelensky acknowledged that he did not inform his allies about the Kursk offensive beforehand, believing they would have opposed it. He urged for a new round of peace talks to compel Russia to negotiate, but Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov dismissed these calls, stating that the recent Ukrainian actions have made negotiations “completely inappropriate.”
Meanwhile, the Russian military claimed another village in the Donetsk region and reported further Ukrainian attacks, including damage to infrastructure. Ukrainian forces continued their push into Kursk, damaging a third bridge over the Seym River, which has impacted Russian supply lines.
In response to the advancing conflict, Ukraine ordered the evacuation of families from Pokrovsk, a key logistics hub in the region. Russian forces also reported the capture of Artemovo, one of their significant recent gains.
As the conflict continues, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Ukraine on Friday, aiming to encourage a peaceful resolution.
