Watch: Ukraine Strikes Second Bridge in Kursk

Ukraine has reported the destruction of another bridge in Russia’s Kursk region, marking the second such incident within a few days as part of its ongoing cross-border offensive initiated on August 6.

The latest strike targeted a bridge near Zvannoye, following a previous attack on a bridge in Glushkovo on Friday. Ukrainian Air Force Commander Mykola Oleshchuk confirmed the destruction in a Telegram post on Sunday, accompanied by a video showing the explosion. He stated that these actions aim to cut off Russian supply routes.

Oleshchuk emphasized that the Ukrainian Air Force is executing precise airstrikes to significantly reduce the enemy’s logistical capabilities, although he did not specify the date of the latest attack.

Following these developments, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy lauded the military’s efforts and clarified the objectives of these actions in his Sunday evening address. He outlined the strategic goal of diminishing Russian military strength and enhancing Ukraine’s counteroffensive operations, including establishing a buffer zone within Russian territory, specifically referencing the operations in the Kursk region.

Observers aligned with the Kremlin have acknowledged the setback caused by the destruction of the Glushkovo bridge, situated approximately 12 kilometers north of the Ukrainian border, noting its impact on Russian logistical operations.

The town of Zvannoye, where the second bridge was hit, is located about 8 kilometers further northwest. According to Russia’s Mash news site, only one bridge remains intact in that vicinity, potentially complicating Russian efforts to reinforce its troops and evacuate civilians.

Until these statements, Kyiv had not extensively disclosed the objectives of this sudden incursion, which began with a significant deployment of tanks and armored vehicles—the largest attack on Russian soil since World War II.

Ukrainian military chief Oleksandr Syrskii stated last week that Ukrainian forces had advanced over an area of 1,000 square kilometers in Kursk, though this claim remains unverified independently.

The offensive has reportedly bolstered Ukrainian morale amid Russian advances in the eastern Donetsk region. On the same day, Moscow reported capturing the village of Svyrydonivka, close to Pokrovsk, a crucial logistical node for Ukrainian forces.

Zelenskyy has appealed to Western allies to remove restrictions on using advanced weapons deeper within Russian territory. He argues that enhanced long-range capabilities would critically impair Moscow’s operational and destructive capacities.

He also highlighted that Russian military bases have been used to launch significant attacks on Ukrainian urban centers and infrastructure, resulting in extensive damage and loss of life.

On a related note, Kyiv faced a third missile attack this month, with the city’s military administration head, Serhiy Popko, reporting the incident on Sunday.

Zelenskyy revealed that over the past week, Russia had launched a substantial offensive involving more than 40 missiles, 750 guided bombs, and 200 drones targeting Ukrainian towns and cities.