KURSK, RUSSIA — Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the Kursk region on Tuesday, marking his first trip to the area since Moscow declared it had fully recaptured the territory following a surprise Ukrainian offensive last year.
According to Russian state media, President Putin met with municipal leaders in the city of Kurchatov and toured the under-construction Kursk Nuclear Power Plant. Video footage released from the visit showed the Russian leader wearing a suit while speaking with local volunteers.
During the visit, Putin stated that Ukrainian forces continue to attempt advances near the Russian border, suggesting ongoing military pressure despite Moscow’s claims of control over the region.
The president also ordered an increase in demining units in Kursk to facilitate the safe return of displaced residents to their homes.
Last month, Putin announced that Russian forces had regained full control of the Kursk region, reportedly with support from North Korean soldiers — a claim that raised international concern. However, Ukraine has denied losing control over the area, insisting that its troops are still actively fighting to hold the territory.
The conflicting reports reflect the broader information war surrounding the conflict, as both sides continue to push contrasting narratives on the ground situation.
