Russia says Ukraine used Western rockets to destroy bridge in Kursk region

Russia says Ukraine used Western rockets to destroy bridge in Kursk region

Sub: IR

Sec:  Places in news

Context:

• Russia’s Foreign Ministry said Ukraine had used Western rockets, likely US made HIMARS, to destroy a bridge over the Seym river in the Kursk region, killing volunteers trying to evacuate civilians.

Western support to Ukraine:

• Russia has accused the West of supporting and encouraging Ukraine’s first ground offensive on Russian territory.
• The U.S., which has said it cannot allow Russian President Vladimir Putin to win the war he launched in February 2022, sees Ukraine’s incursion in Russia a protective move that justifies the use of U.S. weaponry.

About Kursk Region:

• It is located in the western part of Russia, bordering Ukraine to the southwest.
• The region holds historical significance as Battle of Kursk in 1943 was fought in the region during World War II.

About Seym river:

• Seym is a west-flowing river passing through Russia and Ukraine.
• It is the largest tributary of river Desna.

High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS)

• HIMARS is a cutting-edge multiple launch rocket system designed and manufactured in the United States.