Moscow: Russia has ordered additional evacuations in the Kursk region as it battles to contain a significant push by Ukrainian forces into its territory. This unprecedented operation marks Ukraine's largest cross-border incursion since the start of Russia's offensive over two years ago.

The Ukrainian military's advance into the Kursk region, which has reportedly penetrated up to 30 kilometers (20 miles) in some areas, has triggered widespread evacuations, with tens of thousands of civilians fleeing the area. This marks the most substantial foreign military operation on Russian soil since World War II.

A Ukrainian official, speaking anonymously to AFP, stated that the aim of the incursion is to stretch Russian forces, inflict maximum casualties, and destabilize the region. The official also suggested that the number of Ukrainian troops involved is far greater than Russia's initial estimate of 1,000, hinting at the deployment of several thousand troops.

Despite Russia's efforts to repel the attack, including deploying reserve forces, tanks, aviation, artillery, and drones, the situation remains tense. The Russian defense ministry reported on Monday that it had thwarted attempts by Ukrainian forces to advance further into Russian territory but acknowledged the proximity of Ukrainian troops to several villages near the border.

In response to the incursion, Russia has continued to evacuate civilians from the Kursk and Belgorod regions, with emergency trains arranged to transport people to Moscow. Many residents, like Marina, who fled to the capital, expressed fear over the constant presence of helicopters and the escalating conflict.

Meanwhile, both Ukraine and Russia have accused each other of causing a fire at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, although the UN's International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed that there was no immediate threat to nuclear safety.

Ukraine's daring offensive appears to have caught the Kremlin off guard and may have been intended to relieve pressure on Ukrainian forces along other parts of the front line. However, Ukrainian officials believe that while Russia might eventually halt the advance, the operation has already succeeded in disrupting Russian plans and inflicting significant damage.

As the situation develops, both sides are preparing for potential retaliatory strikes, with Ukraine bracing for large-scale missile attacks from Russia, potentially targeting key decision-making centers.