Russia Claims Recapture of Key Kursk Region Town as Peace Talks Loom

Russian forces have reportedly recaptured Sudzha, the largest town previously held by Ukraine in Russia's Kursk region, according to Moscow. This development threatens Ukraine's sole territorial bargaining chip amid growing pressure to negotiate an end to the conflict.

On Thursday, March 13, 2025, the Russian defense ministry announced, "In the course of the offensive operations, units of the North military group liberated the settlements of Melovoy, Podol and Sudzha." The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) corroborated this claim, citing ground footage indicating Russian forces had seized Sudzha and advanced to southern Zaoleshenka.

The recapture of Sudzha, though a small town with a pre-war population of about 5,000, represents a significant symbolic victory for Russia. It was one of the few populated areas still under Ukrainian control in the region.

This military development coincides with diplomatic efforts to end the conflict. U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff arrived in Moscow on Thursday to discuss a 30-day U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal, which Ukraine has already accepted.

Russian President Vladimir Putin made a surprise visit to the Kursk region on Wednesday, emphasizing Moscow's goal to "completely liberate" Kursk as soon as possible. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov expressed confidence that all parts of the Kursk region held by Ukraine will soon be liberated.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the next steps towards peace are "up to Russia now," as U.S. representatives headed to Russia to discuss the ceasefire proposal.

The situation remains fluid, with potential implications for ongoing peace negotiations and the broader conflict between Russia and Ukraine.