【Anchor】
Ukraine claimed to have occupied 74 villages in the southern region of Russia during the 8th day of conflict on Russian soil. Russia stated that it would halt attacks on its territory if Ukraine agreed to a “fair peace,” but revealed that it had no intention to negotiate, saying it was in the process of repelling the operation. Reporter Choi Hee-ji provides coverage.
【Reporter】
Ukrainian soldiers hoist the Ukrainian flag on a building in the Russian southern town of Kursk, showcasing their presence by leaving marks with spray paint on street signs.
Ukraine claimed to have occupied 74 villages in the southern region of Russia only 8 days after the attack on Russian territory had begun.
▶ Interview: Oleksandr Syrsky, Chief of Staff of the Ukrainian Army
– “At present, 74 settlements are under our control.”
While Ukraine stated that it would continue its offensive momentum, it also conveyed that it would cease its attacks if Russia agreed to a “fair peace.”
▶ Interview: Oryhai Tyahnybok, Spokesperson for the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry
– “The sooner Russia accepts restoring a just peace, the sooner the Ukrainian Defense Forces’ invasion of Russian territory will be halted.”
However, Russia firmly stated that it was conducting a repulsion operation and had no intention to negotiate. Russia claimed to have successfully blocked Ukrainian troop infiltrations, stating that Ukraine lost 420 troops in just one day.
▶ Interview: Yevgeniy Yeghimkin, Responsible for the press center of the Russian Northern Group Unit
– “We are continuing to resist attempts to invade the territory of the Russian Federation. We suppressed an attempt by enemy armored vehicles to invade Russian territory.”
With neither side showing signs of backing down, expectations are rising for a prolonged conflict. Ukraine is preparing for extended conflict, restricting civilian movement within 20 km of the border and engaging in serious fortification efforts, while Russia is evacuating civilians and increasing its military presence.
This is MBN News, reporting by Choi Hee-ji.
Video editing: Oh Kwang-hwan.