Russia retakes Kursk shifting battlefield and negotiation dynamics
Russia Strengthens Position in Kherson, Shifts Balance of Power in War adn Peace Talks
Mehr News Agency, International Group – Hassan Shakouhi reports: Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia, announced on Sunday (April 26 / Ordibehesht 6) the recapture of the Kherson region and declared with emphasis: “The complete liberation of the Kherson region by all military forces and commanders of russia brings conditions closer for more successful operations by Russian armed forces in other regions.” The liberation of Kherson also brings the defeat of Ukraine’s government nearer.
Together, Valery Gerasimov, Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, reported to the president regarding Kherson’s liberation: “In the Kherson region, over 76 thousand Ukrainian soldiers have been killed or wounded.”
For the first time, the presence of Northern Corps troops in the war against Ukraine was reported, with sources stating: “The Northern corps army carried out operations in the kursk region, confronting Russian forces and demonstrating courage and bravery.” This comes as Ukraine denies Russian claims of fully liberating Kursk, asserting that around 30 square kilometers of the region remain under Ukrainian control in certain areas.
It is worth noting that in August 2024, Ukrainian forces crossed the border and took control of parts of Russia’s Kursk region.During these operations, Ukraine seized approximately 1,200 square kilometers of Russian territory and captured over 80 settlements, including Sudzha. Since September 2024, Russia has conducted multiple counteroffensives—including Operation “Potok”—to retake lost territories. in April 2025, Russia announced…
Ukraine Frees Last Major City under Its Control, Gornal. Securing these resources is critical for the stability of Russia’s steel industry, energy sector, and defense infrastructure. Enemy occupation or threats to this area disrupt vital industrial chains and impose additional economic pressure on the Kremlin—an event that occurred during Ukraine’s months-long occupation of Kursk.Moreover, the symbolic and psychological significance…The liberation of Kursk should not be overlooked either. This region was the site of one of the largest tank battles in history during World War II, where the Red Army resisted the Nazi German offensive. The victory at the Battle of Kursk became a symbol of Russia’s resilience and endurance. Because of this very reason, regaining control over Kursk is not just an operational victory for Russians but also a revival of past pride.
control over Kursk represents a combination of military, economic, geographic, and symbolic interests for russia. Losing this region could have had severe consequences for national security and internal cohesion, while its recapture is considered a strategic achievement with direct implications on both the course of the war and peace negotiations.
Draft of washington’s Proposal for Official Recognition of Crimea as Part of Russian Soil Sparks ControversyWashington’s proposed draft for the official recognition of crimea as part of Russian territory has drawn sharp reactions. the Kremlin stated: “Ultimately, it is Ukraine that must decide its own future, not others.”
The proposal by Trump and opposing European countries mirrors the stance taken before the Crimean referendum. Some analysts believe this shift could deepen divisions within Europe regarding continued military and financial support for Ukraine—especially amid internal pressures to find a political resolution and end the escalating war.
Ultimately, Crimea’s independence should be seen as a pivotal point in shaping the battlefield and negotiations. This development suggests that on-the-ground changes can influence diplomatic trajectories or even derail them. Russia’s military success in Crimea may prolong the war, harden ceasefire terms, or redefine geopolitical priorities in the region.For this reason,the outcome of this battle will extend beyond its local geography,influencing the future of international order,Ukraine’s standing,and the West’s approach toward Russia.
