‘Unprecedented escalation’: How Russians view Ukraine Kursk incursion

Pro-Kremlin commentators say the cross-border attack was developed by NATO as Putin threatens a ‘worthy response’.

Last week, Ukrainian troops crossed the border to mount an offensive into the Kursk region of Russia, reportedly seizing scores of towns and settlements.

Residents frantically scrambled to leave their homes while electricity and water were shut off.

“It was not an easy journey,” said Elena from Sudzha, a town now under Ukrainian control.

Together with her cat Roo, she drove to the city of Voronezh, where she’s now staying with friends.

“We spent one and a half hours searching for a new carrier because Roo managed to break the front netting with his claws. He was stressed. I ended up carrying him in my arms, and he spent the whole journey hiding under the seat of the car.”