In this photo taken from video released by the Russian Defense Ministry on Friday, Aug. 9, 2024, a column of the Russian Armed Forces move to build up forces conducting active combat operations with Ukrainian formations in the Sudzhansky district of Kursk region of Russia (Russian Defense Ministry Press Service via AP)

Ukrainian forces earlier this month launched an incursion into the Russian province of Kursk, later advanced over 20 miles from the border and showcased their ability to mount effective offensives despite facing significant challenges on other fronts.

"The Ukrainians want attention to this incursion. They’re saying the Ukrainians still have fight in them," John Nagl, a retired US Army lieutenant colonel told the Wall Street Journal.

However, Ukraine now faces a strategic dilemma: whether to continue pushing for gains in Kursk, which requires troops and resources desperately needed on the eastern front, where Russian forces are making gains.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the operation as a way to "push the war onto the aggressor’s territory," but the piece points out that while the initial successes are impressive, sustaining this effort could strain Ukraine’s limited manpower.

There is also concern among Ukrainian commanders, particularly those in the east, who feel that the forces used in Kursk might be more urgently needed elsewhere.

Despite some early victories, such as disrupting Russian communications, the operation’s long-term impact remains uncertain, with fears of a harsh Russian retaliation.

The piece concludes by acknowledging the boldness of the Kursk operation but questions whether it addresses the larger issues facing Ukrainian forces, particularly in the east, where the need for resources is critical.

"The operation in Kursk demands considerable resources, especially in infantry personnel, which might be more urgently needed elsewhere," Franz-Stefan Gady, a Vienna-based military analyst said.

The strategic value of the operation continues to be debated by experts.