Ukraine's Defense Chief on Kursk Operation: 'We Received a Reverse Effect'

Ukraine's Defense Committee Secretary Discusses Kursk Operation and Sumy Region Advance Kyiv, Ukraine – June 11, 2025 – In a recent interview, Roman Kostenko, the secretary of Ukraine's Verkhovna Rada defense committee, shed light on the Kursk operation and the ongoing Russian offensive in the Sumy region. Kostenko's insights offer a critical perspective on the evolving military situation. Kostenko noted the unexpected results of the Kursk operation, stating, "We received a reverse effect of this operation." He further elaborated on the challenges faced by the Ukrainian army in maintaining territorial control, highlighting the difficulties in anticipating and responding to the enemy's actions. The interview underscores the complexities of the conflict and the ongoing need for strategic planning and adaptation in the face of an unpredictable adversary. Kostenko's firsthand knowledge and experience provide a compelling account of the situation in the Sumy region, underscoring the importance of continued support for Ukraine's defense efforts.