Ukraine's Kursk incursion an attempt to “divert” Russian attention in East

Russia on Wednesday battled a major incursion in its Kursk region from Ukraine for a second day, the most serious attack on Russian territory by Kyiv's forces in months that prompted both countries to evacuate several thousand civilians. Citing local commentators, FRANCE 24's Emmanuelle Chaze said Ukraine is likely seeking to "divert some of the Russian attention and Russian troops stationed in the eastern parts of Ukraine". If Ukraine manages to claim Kursk, it may use the region as a "bargaining chip" in talks with Russia, Chaze said.