Ukraine is nearing completion of the Seym River cauldron, a blockade in Russia’s Kursk Region, with around 3,000 Russian soldiers trapped inside, reports German newspaper Bild. Ukrainian troops began destroying bridges over the Seym River on August 16, aiming to isolate the Russian forces, who are surrounded by Ukrainian territory from the west and south.
In response, Russia has established pontoon crossings and an air bridge, while defending the remaining eastern passage. Ukraine has made significant gains, occupying villages like Snagost and Apanasovka, and is just 5 km away from completing the encirclement.
“From August 16, the Ukrainian troops started blowing up the bridges of the Seym River…It can isolate the Russian Armed Forces group,” Bild writes. With 2-3 thousand Russian soldiers remaining inside the cauldron, Ukraine’s military has the upper hand.
The Russians face a difficult decision: “fight and defend that area, or retreat. Apparently, both options will be fatal for them.” However, Bild notes that this battle is not decisive, as Ukraine’s remaining strength is unknown. Despite this, Ukraine has already crossed into Russian territory, controlling 15 square kilometers and the Otruba farm. The situation remains dire for the trapped Russian forces.
