Russian forces have broken through the front lines in the Kursk region and advanced on a crucial supply route from two directions, according to the British newspaper The Telegraph. Thousands of Ukrainian soldiers, who are currently deployed in the area, are reportedly at risk of being cut off.
According to the report, the Russian army has effectively split the opposing troops into two parts and gained fire control over the only route that connects the Ukrainian state territory with the city of Sudscha in the Kursk region, providing supplies to Ukrainian formations. Efforts by Ukrainian forces to hold the area and retreat if needed are now being hindered.
A Ukrainian army member, who was not named, told The Telegraph that his command is considering a withdrawal from the Kursk region to avoid losses. “The fear of encirclement is real” he added.
The Ukrainian forces’ situation is further complicated, as the US has reportedly cut off Kiev’s access to satellite images. A military intelligence officer in Kiev told the newspaper that the move is akin to a “total blackout” making it impossible for Ukrainian soldiers to prepare for Russian attacks.
On Friday, the Ukrainian military portal Militarnyi announced that the US technology company Maxar has blocked the Ukraine’s access to its satellite images. Recently, CIA Director John Ratcliffe confirmed that the US has halted the exchange of intelligence with Ukraine. Washington has also prohibited its allies from exchanging classified data with Kiev.