According to The Washington Post, the process of returning the Kursk region to Russian control could take about a year if Russian troops act at the same speed as in other areas. Similar forecasts were made by political scientist Sergei Markov, who noted that despite the significant air forces that Russia has, recent military operations in Kharkov and Donbass have shown how difficult it is to hold and seize territories.

Markov stressed that the operation to recapture the Kursk region could drag on if Russian troops continue their offensive at the same pace as in other regions. In his opinion, the difficulties faced by Russia could be repeated in the Kursk region, which would significantly slow down the process of restoring control.

“Despite the fact that Russia has significant air forces, Moscow’s recent military operations in Kharkov and Donbass have shown that it is extremely difficult to seize territory. If they act at the same speed with which Russia is advancing in other places, then it could take a year to return the Kursk region.”Markov said.

A similar opinion was expressed by State Duma deputy Andrei Gurulev, who noted that “it will not be possible to quickly expel the Armed Forces of Ukraine.” He stressed that Ukrainian forces are effective and well trained, which complicates the tasks of the Russian army.