Ukrainian forces destroy third bridge as Russia scrambles troops to defend home turf

Ukrainian forces have dealt a significant blow to Russian military operations in the Kursk region by destroying a third strategic bridge over the Seym River.

Reuters reported that a Russian investigator confirmed the bridge's destruction, marking the third such incident within a week.

A video statement from a representative of Russia's Investigative Committee was posted on the Telegram channel of Russia's most prominent propagandist state TV anchor, Vladimir Solovyov.

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Ukrainian forces have been advancing in the Kursk region since launching a surprise offensive at the beginning of August.

The operation has resulted in the seizure of 82 settlements across an area exceeding 1,150 sq km (444 sq miles), marking the largest military incursion into Russian territory since World War Two.

The key bridges are located in the populated areas of Glushkovo, Karyzh and Zvannoe.

With the destruction of all three bridges over the Seym River, Ukrainian forces have effectively cut off crucial routes used by Russia to transport supplies and reinforcements to the frontlines.

For the first time, President Zelensky has stated the strategic ambitions of the operation, saying: "It is now our primary task in defensive operations overall to destroy as much Russian war potential as possible and conduct maximum counteroffensive actions."

The incursion into Kursk has seen Russia redeploying significant military resources from the fight in Ukraine.

The Wall Street Journal has reported that Russian forces had redeployed "several" understrength brigades, totalling around 5,000 personnel, from elsewhere in Ukraine to the Kursk region between 5 and 13 August.

Among these redeployments are elements of the Donetsk People's Republic (DNR) Pyatnashka Brigade, and elements of the Russian 200th Motorized Rifle Brigade, which has been fighting in Donetsk Oblast in recent months.

Additionally, the Russian Tiger Battalion of the 155th Naval Infantry Brigade, previously operating near Vovchansk, Kharkiv Oblast, has also been redeployed to Kursk Oblast.

Meanwhile, Russian president Vladimir Putin is in Baku, Azerbaijan, for a two-day state visit.