**Russian Forces Intensify Assaults on Ukrainian Positions in Kursk**

The ongoing conflict in Kursk Oblast has reached a critical juncture as Russian marines and paratroopers, with reinforcements from North Korea, launch determined assaults on Ukrainian defenses. This aggressive push seems to be driven by a strategic aim to force Ukrainian troops out of Kursk before the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump in January.

Elements of three powerful Ukrainian brigades are currently holding the line on the left flank of the 250-square-mile Ukrainian salient in Kursk. Despite their efforts, they face being outnumbered and outgunned by Russian forces and their allies. The Kremlin appears ready to accept substantial casualties to reclaim Kursk from Ukrainian control, which was established following their invasion of the oblast in August.

"Very cruel fights are taking part in [the] Kursk area," reported Ukrainian drone operator Kriegsforscher. On Monday, Russian paratroopers from the 51st Airborne Regiment and marines from the 155th Naval Infantry Brigade executed a head-on attack against Ukrainian positions, supported by a variety of armored vehicles and tanks. Ukrainian drones and tanks engaged in chaotic and bloody combat with the attacking forces, resulting in significant Russian losses, including 15 infantry fighting vehicles and APCs, and three tanks.

The harsh fighting saw instances of close and confusing encounters. Notably, two Ukrainian tank crews, potentially part of the newly reorganized 17th Heavy Mechanized Brigade, failed to notice and thus initially bypassed four Russian BMDs or BMPs full of infantry. It was only when the Russian vehicles unloaded 15 paratroopers that the Ukrainian tanks opened fire, destroying one BMD.

Such intense engagements are not rare in this conflict. During an assault last Saturday, 15 Russians from the 51st Airborne Regiment were reportedly killed or wounded by a Ukrainian drone unit, highlighting the severe losses faced by Russian troops. However, Ukrainian forces are also suffering casualties, with recent reports of six Ukrainian soldiers being captured and executed by Russian units, particularly the 155th Naval Infantry Brigade.

With relentless Russian attacks causing the front line in eastern Ukraine to buckle, Ukraine is in urgent need of reinforcements for Kursk. Meanwhile, Russia can draw on thousands of North Korean soldiers to bolster its front-line units. There are also indications that a regiment from Russia's elite 76th Airborne Division is en route to Kursk.

The strategic town of Sudzha sits at the center of the Ukrainian salient in Kursk and is a key objective for the Kremlin. According to the Ukrainian Center for Defense Strategies, Russia aims to regain control over Sudzha before the next U.S. president's inauguration. President-elect Trump has pledged to end the war in Ukraine, proposing to freeze the front lines, a solution favorable to Russia if achieved now.

President Vladimir Putin's urgency in retaking Kursk before a potential ceasefire is evident, as Russian troops continue to launch head-on attacks despite high casualties. This strategy suggests preparation for either a favorable armistice or another prolonged year of combat.