ISW explains why Putin made statements about the 'encirclement' of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in Kursk.

Analysts explained why Putin claimed there was an 'encirclement' of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in Kursk

According to an analytical report from the Institute for the Study of War, Russian President Vladimir Putin made a statement about incorrect information regarding the 'encirclement' of Ukrainian forces in Kursk. These statements are considered unfounded and have a political purpose.

On March 13, Putin confirmed U.S. President Donald Trump's claims about 'thousands of Ukrainian soldiers', stating that Ukrainian forces are encircled in Kursk. It is asserted that such statements by Putin aim to distract attention from the U.S. refusal to declare a 30-day ceasefire.

Analysts from the Institute for the Study of War point out the lack of evidence for the encirclement of Ukrainian troops, and this has been confirmed by the Russian General Staff. They also emphasize that Ukrainian forces during the Kursk operation were secure and not under threat of encirclement.

Putin reiterated his statements about the encirclement of Ukrainian forces at a meeting of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, but no evidence is provided.

It should be reminded that Putin previously claimed an encirclement of Ukrainian forces in Kursk in October 2024, but these statements lack confirmation. Analysts believe that Putin is trying to create a new narrative to distract attention from his actions and important discussions regarding the cessation of the war.

Thus, statements about the 'encirclement' of Ukrainian forces in Kursk are a political manipulation by Putin aimed at achieving his own goals.