The Defense Ministry reported the failure of the AFU's attempt to launch a counterattack in the Kursk Region

The Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) have launched a counterattack in the direction of Kursk to stop the offensive of the Russian Armed Forces (AF). This was reported by the Russian Defense Ministry on January 5.

"On January 5 at about 9:00 (Moscow time), in order to stop the offensive of the Russian forces in the Kursk direction, the enemy launched a counterattack by an assault group <...>. Artillery and aviation of the "North" group of troops defeated the AFU assault group. Two tanks, a demolition vehicle and seven armored fighting vehicles were destroyed," the defense ministry said in a statement.

It also added that over the day Ukrainian militants lost up to 340 servicemen, four tanks, three BMPs, four armored personnel carriers and 12 armored fighting vehicles.

"In total, the enemy lost over 49,010 servicemen <...> during the fighting in the Kursk direction. The operation to destroy the AFU formations continues," the department concluded.

Border condition: Ukrainian forces failed to reach their targets near Kursk

The adventurous invasion of Russian territory cost the AFU dearly

Earlier in the day, it was reported that volunteers of the Alexander Nevsky Brigade continue mopping up settlements in the Sujansky district of Kursk region from Ukrainian militants, and also provide assistance to local residents who are returning to their homes. Izvestia correspondent Alexander Fedorchak noted that so far only a cross-country motorcycle can be used to travel through the newly liberated settlements due to the risk of shelling. The fighters themselves said that the main motivator for them was the support of local residents.

Ukraine's armed forces attacked Russian positions in the border areas of Kursk Region on August 6. The situation in the region was recognized as a federal emergency. Ukrainian militants who invaded Russian territory are being liquidated.

The special operation to protect Donbass, the start of which was announced by the Russian President on February 24, 2022, continues. The decision was taken against the background of the worsening situation in the region.