International

IIE DIGITAL DESK : Russian President Vladimir Putin has made his first visit to the western Kursk region since Moscow announced the expulsion of Ukrainian forces from the area in April 2025. The visit, which took place on Tuesday, May 20, was confirmed by the Kremlin and is seen as a symbolic assertion of Russia's regained control over the territory. 

During his visit, Putin met with local officials, including acting Governor Alexander Khinshtein, and volunteer organizations that have been active in supporting displaced civilians and reconstruction efforts. He also toured the under-construction Kursk-II nuclear power plant, a multi-billion-dollar project aimed at bolstering the region's energy infrastructure.  

The Kursk region, located near the border with Ukraine, became a focal point in the ongoing conflict when Ukrainian forces launched a significant incursion in August 2024, marking the first time since World War II that foreign troops occupied Russian territory. At the height of the occupation, Ukrainian forces controlled approximately 1,400 square kilometers of the region.  

Russia's counteroffensive, which included the controversial involvement of North Korean troops, culminated in the recapture of Kursk in April 2025. Despite Moscow's claims of full control, Ukrainian officials assert that their forces continue to operate in parts of the region, and sporadic clashes persist.  

Putin's visit comes amid ongoing tensions and military activities in the broader region. On the same day as his visit, a Russian missile strike targeted a Ukrainian military training site in the Sumy region, resulting in the deaths of six Ukrainian soldiers and injuries to at least ten others. 

The visit also occurs against the backdrop of stalled diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict. Recent attempts at peace negotiations, including a proposed summit hosted by the Vatican, have failed to yield significant progress. Former U.S. President Donald Trump's recent call with Putin did not lead to any breakthroughs, and European leaders have expressed frustration over the lack of movement toward a ceasefire.  

Domestically, Putin's presence in Kursk is seen as an effort to bolster morale and demonstrate the Kremlin's commitment to restoring normalcy in the region. However, local residents have voiced concerns over inadequate compensation for war-related damages and the slow pace of reconstruction. In response, Putin pledged continued financial support and the establishment of a commemorative museum to honor those affected by the conflict. 

As the situation remains fluid, with ongoing military operations and diplomatic uncertainties, the international community continues to monitor developments in the region closely. The conflict's trajectory will likely depend on both the military dynamics on the ground and the willingness of the involved parties to engage in meaningful negotiations.