Illustrative Image
In a significant tactical victory, Russian marines from the Sever (North) grouping have liberated the Svyato-Nikolaevsky Gornalsky Monastery in the Sudzha district of Kursk region. The monastery, a key Ukrainian stronghold, had been used as a defensive position due to its strategic elevation, dominating the surrounding area.
The first reports about Russian victory came in late April 16th, supported by footage from the area. The assault was launched by marines from the 1st Company of the Arctic Battalion (40th Brigade, Sever grouping) after Ukrainian garrison refused to surrender. The defending Ukrainian forces were soon partially surrounded and their supply lines across the Psel River were heavily shelled by Russian artillery. However, the assault operations were complicated by the terrain beneficial to the Ukrainian troops. Despite all challenges, Russian forces succeeded in dislodging entrenched Ukrainian forces.
According to some reports, by the evening of April 16, Ukrainian servicemen could have remained on the territory of the monastery, but their defense was doomed.
The monastery, heavily damaged in the fighting, had served as a last major stronghold for Ukrainian troops after their retreat from nearby town of Guevo. Russian forces have now secured the area, though clashes continue in the border forests as Ukrainian units attempt counterattacks.
The liberation of the Gornal Monastery marks another important step in liberation of the Russian Kursk region of Ukrainian forces. While the historic religious site has suffered destruction, its symbolic and strategic importance remains intact. Russian military reporters emphasize that remaining Ukrainian troops in the area now face an inevitable defeat, with no strong defensive positions left to hold.
The monastery, a revered Orthodox Christian site, is expected to be restored, reaffirming its spiritual significance despite the scars of battle.
