• Putin visited Kursk for the first time since Russia claimed to have expelled Ukrainian forces.
• The visit included meetings with local volunteers and an inspection of Kursk Nuclear Power Plant-2.
• Putin's trip comes after Ukraine's surprise incursion into Kursk, marking the first occupation of Russian territory since WWII.
• Despite Russia's claims of control, Ukraine maintains active operations in border regions.
• Recent missile strikes have resulted in casualties among Ukrainian troops during training.

President Vladimir Putin made a significant visit to the western Kursk region, marking his first trip there since Russian forces claimed to have expelled Ukrainian troops last month. The Kremlin confirmed this trip took place on Tuesday, coinciding with the ongoing border tensions between the two countries. At the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant-2, Putin emphasized local volunteer efforts, stating, "What you are doing now... will remain with you for the rest of your life as, perhaps, the most meaningful thing with which you were ever involved," according to Reuters.

The context of this visit is marked by the shocking Ukrainian military incursion in August 2024, which allowed them to reclaim around 1,400 square kilometers of Kursk, a significant achievement in the ongoing conflict. This milestone represented the first foreign occupation of Russian territory since World War II, delivering a substantial psychological blow to the Kremlin. Since late 2023, Moscow has claimed military advantages, but the Kursk episode has remained a notable exception, with Russia's recent retake announced on April 26, opposing Ukraine's assertions that their troops continue to hold ground, reports TRT Global and Reuters.

During his tour, Putin engaged with local officials and volunteers and expressed support for ongoing financial assistance to displaced families impacted by the conflict, reaffirming a monthly payment scheme. The acting governor, Alexander Khinshtein, highlighted plans for a museum to honor local defenders and residents. This visit seemingly reflects Putin’s desire to project resilience amid increasing pressures from Western nations for a ceasefire, a stance he has effectively resisted, as noted by sources including SCMP and Al Jazeera.

Meanwhile, conflict continues as recent military actions saw Ukraine reporting casualties from Russian missile strikes on training facilities, with certain estimates suggesting at least six servicemen killed and multiple others injured. The contested nature of the conflict is reflected in ongoing drone engagements, with Russia reporting the interception of 159 Ukrainian drones, while simultaneously facing backlash over casualties in its military operations. Military activities persist along the frontlines, as stated by the Ukrainian national guard who insist on temporary local control despite Russian claims, as reported by India Times and India Times.