The Telegraph: Putin throws young cannon fodder to Kursk, maintains offensive in Ukraine

The Telegraph’s David Axe argues that Vladimir Putin’s refusal to withdraw troops from Ukraine and his decision to send poorly trained teenage conscripts to defend Kursk Oblast against a Ukrainian incursion reveals a stark shift in Russian military strategy. Conscripts were meant to serve only in non-combat roles in Russia.

However, the article contends that if the last objective was Ukraine’s intent, it has thus far failed. The Kremlin has resisted redeploying significant regular formations to Kursk, instead opting to send young conscripts with minimal training and equipment.

ISW: Kremlin propaganda justifies eastern Ukraine focus amid Kursk incursion

During the ongoing operation, Ukrainian troops have captured a few thousands of Russian POWs. For example, one of such events saw 102 Russian military captured, with most of the group being young conscripts, some reporting only days of training before deployment.

Large group of Russian POWs in the Kursk region. 14th of August. https://t.co/I2S4r2HNjj pic.twitter.com/b0LO8JpItT

— Special Kherson Cat

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