Espreso. Global
OPINION

Strategic initiative essential for Ukraine’s success in Kursk region

18 August, 2024 Sunday
15:51

Let’s play a strategy game. I have a strong background in military and political history, and I’m a geographer by first degree. I’m familiar with maps and terrain

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So don’t dismiss it as the opinion of a 'couch expert.'

I know what I’m talking about.

We have the following situation near Sudzha: we need to build a new front. 

A new front at the beginning of any war is a moving front.

The first day was hard for our military on the Kursk front - they were breaking through. The second day was tough as well. Then we entered the operational space and quickly moved forward.

Now it is difficult for us to advance because the enemy has deployed reserves and is reinforcing their positions. We are about to enter a stage of fierce counterattacks.

Immediately, Putin needs to save face and label the situation as a provocation.

Read also: Kursk, Donbas and Russia's cunning plans

If you closely examine the map, you'll see that in the Korenevo area, the Seim River bends from north to west. 

To the west, in Glushkovo, there is a bridge that connects both banks of the river. Although the Seim is not very wide in these parts, it flows swiftly.

There are few suitable locations for pontoon crossings, so it's crucial to hold the southern bank of the Seim. 

This is especially important because there is a significant Russian presence in Tetkino, which serves as their stronghold.

Given that we have also advanced into Russia from the Krasnopillia community, it means the new northeastern front of the war will likely extend at least to Vorskla, specifically to Velyka Pysarivka.

From the Seim River to Vorskla.

And potentially further eastward to connect with the main front line near Vovchansk. 

Stretching out the flanks benefits those with a technical advantage or more troops.

If we extend the frontline by another 500+ kilometers, both sides will be forced to stretch their forces. 

A larger front means a reduced concentration of troops in any given area.

We have better logistics than the enemy and are on the inner perimeter, while they are on the outer perimeter. This gives us a longer reach to move troops from flank to flank.

This is also our advantage, making it harder for Russia. 

However, note that with a longer frontline, it’s crucial for us to hold strategic initiative.

Only our General Staff will know where and when the next offensive will occur. 

I believe Syrskyi has taken all of this into account.

* Published with the author's style preserved

Source

About the author. Viktor Bobyrenko, political scientist.

The editors don't always share the opinions expressed by the blog authors.

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