Ukraine Orders Evacuation of Villages Near Kursk Border

Ukraine has announced the evacuation of eight villages situated along its border with Russia's Kursk region. This decision comes in response to escalating tensions and military activity in the area. Ukrainian forces had previously advanced into the Kursk region in August of last year but have recently faced setbacks, leading to a retreat in the face of renewed Russian military pressure.

Russian officials claim that the remaining Ukrainian troops in the Kursk area are now encircled. In light of the deteriorating security situation, the military leadership in Ukraine's Sumy region has instructed residents of the affected villages to evacuate. The statement emphasized that this measure is necessary due to ongoing Russian shelling and the overall worsening of the operational environment.

As the conflict continues to evolve, the safety of civilians remains a top priority for Ukrainian authorities, who are taking proactive steps to protect residents in vulnerable areas.