Ukrainian Special Operations Forces carried out a successful mission in the Russian region of Kursk, eliminating at least a dozen Russian soldiers and capturing valuable enemy equipment. The Sixth Ranger Regiment of Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces announced the operation through its official social media channels. The strike is part of Ukraine’s continued cross border operations aimed at disrupting Russian military movements and logistics.
The Rangers, a highly trained unit established to meet NATO standards, have been active in the Kursk region for an extended period. While their exact structure remains classified, reports suggest the existence of at least four separate regiments, with the Fourth and Sixth Regiments taking the lead in combat operations. These elite units, unlike their United States counterparts, operate with heavy armoured vehicles, including infantry fighting vehicles and tanks. Their missions include reconnaissance, sabotage, and direct combat to eliminate Russian positions.
In a separate operation, the Ukrainian Air Force successfully destroyed the Kinsky Bridge near the occupied town of Oleshky. The bridge was taken out by an airstrike from a fighter jet, as confirmed by photographic and video evidence posted in Ukrainian Telegram channels. This strike is part of an ongoing effort to weaken Russia’s control over occupied territories. Ukrainian forces maintain control of the right bank of the Dnipro River, with Russian forces struggling to hold onto their remaining positions on the left bank.
The Kinsky Bridge was a critical link for Russian military operations, serving as an extension of the Antonivsky Bridge, which had previously been destroyed. The bridge’s destruction further complicates Russian efforts to resupply and reinforces Ukraine’s dominance in the region. Ukrainian military sources indicate that Russian troops are constantly trying to retake lost territory on the left bank, but they have been unable to make any significant progress.
Germany has also taken steps to strengthen its defences amid growing security concerns in Europe. The German Ministry of Defence announced the creation of the first Territorial Defence Forces Division, known as the Heimatschutz Division. This new force, which will consist of 6,000 soldiers, is intended to protect critical infrastructure such as ports, railway facilities, pipelines, and bridges. In times of emergency, the division will also assist in disaster relief and, if necessary, counter military threats.
The German Army will assume command of the Territorial Defence Forces from 1 April 2025. Lieutenant General Andreas Hoppe, Deputy Inspector General of the German Army, stated that the decision to integrate these forces under the Army’s command is a significant step in strengthening Germany’s internal security. The Heimatschutz Division becomes the fourth division of the German land forces, alongside three other divisions that could be deployed to NATO’s eastern flank in case of a military threat.
Meanwhile, China’s position on Russian oil purchases has shifted, with two major state-owned oil companies halting imports and two others reducing their intake. The decision comes amid concerns about compliance with United States sanctions imposed on Russia in January 2024. The sanctions have led to a sharp decline in Russian oil exports to both China and India. Chinese sources suggest that companies are waiting for a detailed compliance review before deciding whether to resume purchases.
The economic pressure on Russia continues to grow as sanctions take effect, reducing its ability to finance the war. With key oil customers reconsidering their purchases, Russia faces increasing difficulties in sustaining its war effort. The battlefield situation remains intense, with Ukraine maintaining pressure on Russian positions both through direct attacks and strategic strikes on critical infrastructure.
