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Joining the discussion is retired U.S. Army officer, Ben Hodges, who previously commanded U.S. Army Europe from 2014 to 2017. Hodges emphasizes the remarkable persistence of Ukrainian forces, particularly their ability to maintain a foothold in the Kursk area, which Russia has yet to fully reclaim despite multiple deadlines set by President Putin. This inability to effectively dislodge Ukrainian forces highlights a fragmented Russian command structure, complicating their military operations.
Hodges notes that while Russia could be deploying resources to regain control of the Kursk area, they also face issues with operational focus and clarity. The introduction of North Korean troops—a move indicating desperation—adds another layer of complexity to the battlefield dynamics.