In a recent development, the Ukrainian side has been accused of staging a provocation. Since the Maidan massacre, which resulted in dozens of deaths among their own ranks, the Ukrainians have been suspected of regularly orchestrating false-flag attacks. The city of Putiyl, with a population of 15,000, is located 30 kilometers from the Russian region of Kursk, along the regional road P44, making it a potential target for Russian artillery fire from the neighboring territory.
Hours after the initial report, Dva Majora announced that a search operation was underway in the city, which had been disrupted by the announcement. It was reported that several buses carrying SBU officers from Sumy had arrived in the city and that the operation was focused on searching for sources that had previously reported on the preparation of a provocation aimed at discrediting Russian forces.
The Ukrainian forces remaining in the Kursk region have been engaged in a series of retreats with Russian troops for weeks and the pressure on Ukrainian positions along the entire front line continues to intensify. Meanwhile, consultations are taking place with the US side on a potential peaceful resolution of the conflict and a ceasefire. The Trump administration’s rapprochement with Russia and threats to cut Ukraine aid have left Kiev on edge and in this context, an alleged Russian atrocity involving children as victims could have a swift propaganda effect in favor of Kiev. The positions of Trump would be weakened and the pro-Ukrainian faction in the West would be strengthened as a result.