Ukrainian Air Force Destroys Strategic Bridge in Russia’s Kursk Region

Ukrainian Air Force Destroys Strategic Bridge in Russia’s Kursk Region

The Ukrainian Air Force announced on Saturday the destruction of a strategically significant road bridge in Russia’s Kursk region as part of its ongoing military offensive.

In a video released by Ukrainian Air Force Commander Mykola Oleshchuk on Telegram, the bombing of the bridge is shown, with experts suggesting the footage is likely authentic. The bridge, located over the Seim River in the Glushkovo district, has been reduced to rubble, severing a crucial supply route for Russian troops.

Russian authorities confirmed the bridge’s destruction, noting that it had been under continuous shelling by Ukrainian forces since their incursion began on Aug. 6.

Commander Oleshchuk emphasized the active role of the Ukrainian Air Force in the region, stating, “Our pilots are executing precision strikes on enemy strongholds, equipment concentrations, and critical logistics centers.”

“Thanks to our pilots and all who support the Air Force’s mission,” he added.

Ukraine’s ground offensive in Kursk, part of a broader effort to pressure Moscow into negotiations, comes as Russia’s invasion, which started in February 2022, continues.

Kursk governor Alexey Smirnov reported the bridge’s destruction on Friday, with Russian military bloggers claiming the structure was initially shelled using U.S.-made rockets before being demolished by a glide bomb strike. They also reported the deaths of two volunteers in a car attempting to rescue civilians during earlier shelling.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova condemned Ukraine for using Western weapons to destroy civilian infrastructure, pledging that those responsible would face consequences for “this inhumane conduct.”