Ukraine has destroyed a critical bridge and appears to have targeted at least one more in Russia’s western Kursk region as it tries to sever Russian supply lines and consolidate its territorial gains, a dozen days into its startling cross-border offensive.
Analysts say the destruction of the bridge — which spanned the Seym River near the town of Glushkovo, about 10 miles west of the battle zone in Kursk — could hamper Russia’s response to the Ukrainian attack by making it harder to move troops and materiel, although there are alternative routes.
The destruction of the bridge was reported by both Kyiv and Moscow.
Lt. Gen. Mykola Oleshchuk, the commander of Ukraine’s Air Force, posted a video on social media late Friday showing the bridge’s destruction. The video captured a large explosion tearing the bridge in two near a river embankment.
“Ukrainian pilots are conducting precision strikes on enemy strongholds, equipment concentrations, as well as on enemy logistics centers and supply routes,” General Oleshchuk said.
Analysts say the destruction of the Glushkovo bridge points to a commitment by Ukraine to a sustained fight in western Russia. By trying to disrupt Moscow’s logistical lines, they say, Ukraine may be preparing for a prolonged campaign to strengthen and possibly expand its positions in the area.