Gornal and Oleshnya: Russia’s Grinding Advance in Kursk’s Final Battle Zones (18+)

Ukrainian tank destroyed in Kursk region

Russian troops continue offensive operations in the Kursk region, gradually reclaiming territory seized by Ukrainian forces during their cross-border incursion in August 2024. While significant progress has been made, Ukrainian formations are putting up stiff resistance, particularly in the last key areas like Gornal and Oleshnya, where intense fighting persists.

Russian assault units have successfully taken control of the Gornal Monastery, a strategic position in the ongoing battle for the last border area, including the village of Gornal nearby. Ukrainian forces retain a foothold in parts of Mount Fragor, which remains a contested “gray zone.” Ukrainian forces still hold tactical advantages in the surrounding terrain, using elevated positions to harass Russian troops with drones and artillery. Russian troops face difficulties securing the village of Gornal due to strong Ukrainian defensive positions and constant drone surveillance.

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In Oleshnya, Russian forces have made significant strides, liberating all but one of the remaining Ukrainian-held positions. The mop up operations are underway to eliminate remaining resistance in the village, which has been heavily damaged by artillery exchanges. Once Oleshnya is fully secured, Russian forces will focus on consolidating control over nearby forests and defensive lines. The area remains volatile, with Ukrainian forces launching sporadic counterattacks.

Battles in the Gornal area:

With most of the Kursk region now back under Russian control, military operations have shifted toward Ukrainian Sumy region, with Russian troops aiming to create a buffer zone to prevent further Ukrainian incursions. Fighting has been reported near Yunakivka, Loknya, Vladimirovka, and Basovka, though the frontline situation remains fluid. Ukrainian forces continue to reinforce their positions, suggesting they intend to hold ground rather than retreat fully.

Russian forces claim to have inflicted heavy losses on Ukrainian troops over the past 24 hours, including:

• 170+ soldiers killed

• 1 U.S.-made Bradley IFV, 1 armored vehicle, 6 artillery pieces destroyed

• 11 UAV command posts and 2 ammunition depots eliminated

Since the start of hostilities in Kursk, Ukraine’s reported losses include:

• 75,710 troops

• 412 tanks, 337 infantry fighting vehicles

• 642 artillery systems, 62 MLRS (including 15 HIMARS)

• 130 electronic warfare stations, 18 counter-battery radars

While Russian forces have regained most of the Kursk region, the fighting remains grueling, with Ukrainian troops exploiting terrain and drone warfare to slow advances. Meanwhile, Russian operations extending into Sumy region indicate a strategic shift toward pushing Ukrainian forces further from the border to secure Russian territory against future attacks.

MORE ON THE TOPIC:

• Russian Forces Liberated Gornal Monastery In Kursk Region
• Battle For Gornal Monastery: Ukrainian Garrison Refused To Surrender
• Shifting Battlefield Dynamics: Russia Presses Offensive With Swarm Drones Pounding Rear