Russia struggles to form adequate response to Ukraine’s Kursk operation – NATO’s supreme allied commander

The Russian Federation is currently struggling to develop an efficient reaction to Ukraine's actions in the Kursk region. However, their response has been sluggish and disorganized thus far.

Voice of America reports that General Christopher Cavoli, NATO's supreme commander in Europe, stated this during the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) event on August 15.

According to Cavoli's analysis, several factors influence the delay in the Russian response.

• Firstly, there is confusion about who should be accountable for hostilities within Russia. While the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation is responsible for actions in Ukraine, they are not held accountable for events occurring within Russian borders. Instead, the Ministry of Internal Affairs should handle these matters.

"Russia is still piecing together its response to the invasion of Ukraine. So far, it's only been a fairly slow and scattered response. Part of that is because Russia doesn't establish who has the authority. The Ministry of Defense is responsible for military action inside Ukraine but not inside Russia. That is, it should be the Ministry of Internal Affairs," the general analyzed.

• Secondly, the commander of the NATO joint forces notes that Russia does not have free forces that could be transferred to oppose the Ukrainian operation. The level of Russian ground forces' involvement in Ukraine is very significant, which limits the possibilities for rapid mobilization of reserves.

"Russia has only conscript units left, which are legally prohibited from being used in Ukraine. Therefore, we should not expect a quick reaction from these units," the general explains.

• Additionally, Cavoli notes that Russia has deployed a significant amount of air forces to the Kursk region. However, it remains uncertain how many ground forces will be included and what impact this will have.

"Some units have arrived from the east of Ukraine and will probably be given preference. Russia will be forced to make decisions about the time and number of troops that will be involved," he said.

In terms of the Ukrainian army, Cavoli highlights that, despite facing many challenges, Ukraine has shown remarkable advancements in terms of military strategies, equipment, and tactics.

"I am impressed by what Ukraine has achieved thanks to the help of approximately 50 countries that have united to support its struggle," the general said, adding that allies continue to effectively support Ukraine's defense.

Cavoli also noted the significant contribution of allies in providing Ukrainian forces with modern equipment and technologies, which, in his opinion, helps Ukraine successfully cope with challenges at the front.

Summing up, the commander of NATO's joint forces emphasized the importance of continuing international support for Ukraine, noting that this assistance is crucial in ensuring its ability to resist aggression and achieve military goals.

For reference:

On August 16, the Airborne Assault Forces of Ukraine published unique footage showing the first hours of the defense forces' offensive operation in the Kursk region of the Russian Federation, which began on August 6, 2024.

As of August 15, the Defense Forces advanced from 500 m to 1.5 km in separate directions and repelled three attacks. Fighters continued offensive actions. In general, since the beginning of the operation in the Kursk region, Ukrainian troops have advanced 35 km and taken control of 1150 m² and 82 settlements.

Also, the Ukrainian government created the first military commandant's office in the part of the Kursk region under the control of Ukraine's armed forces.

It should be added that Ukraine has no intention of seizing the territories of Russia's Kursk region but is focused on protecting the lives of its citizens. In addition, the operation does not allow the enemy to transfer additional units to the Donetsk region, complicating their logistics.