Russia Tightens Grip on Ukrainian-held Town, Peace Talks Loom in Saudi Arabia

Russia Tightens Grip on Ukrainian-held Town in Kursk Region

Russia has seized control of several villages in the Kursk region, claiming its forces are close to encircling thousands of Ukrainian troops on Russian soil. This development comes ahead of crucial talks between US and Ukrainian representatives in Saudi Arabia this week.

The Russian advance focuses on the Ukrainian-held town of Sudzha, with the recapture of villages like Staraya, Novaya Sorochina, and Malaya Loknya. This tightening grip coincides with a major offensive launched by Russian and North Korean troops last week, following the withdrawal of US military support and intelligence sharing with Kyiv.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to engage in diplomatic efforts, meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh on Monday and sending a delegation led by his chief of staff to meet with US officials on Tuesday. The Ukrainian delegation is expected to propose a peace plan outlined by Zelenskyy, which includes a cessation of hostilities and a suspension of military activity in the Black Sea. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin has so far shown no interest in a ceasefire.

The situation in Sudzha remains tense, with reports of heavy fighting and unconfirmed accounts of Ukrainian soldiers captured. The crucial supply route between Sudzha and Ukraine's Sumy region is under constant Russian bombardment.

Adding to the complexity, Elon Musk has threatened to shut down his Starlink satellite internet service in Ukraine, which serves as a critical communication backbone for the Ukrainian army. This threat has sparked criticism from Poland's foreign minister, who emphasized the commercial contract and financial contribution made by his government to ensure Ukraine's access to Starlink.

Ukrainian engineers are actively exploring alternative satellite providers, as reported by the Financial Times. Negotiations are underway with four European satellite operators, although replacing Starlink terminals across the extensive frontline would be a time-consuming process.

The conflict continues to inflict casualties, with over 20 people killed in the past two days due to Russian bombings. Ukrainian forces have retaliated with long-range drone attacks targeting oil refineries and depots deep inside Russia.

The upcoming talks in Saudi Arabia will be crucial in determining the trajectory of the conflict. Whether the Ukrainian peace plan gains traction or the US pushes for further concessions remains to be seen. The situation in Sudzha and the ongoing battle for control will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the course of negotiations.