On March 15, it became known that the Armed Forces of Ukraine had withdrawn from the city of Sudzha in Kursk Oblast, which is now marked on the official map of the operation as under Russian control . This was confirmed by the General Staff of Ukraine , noting that the Ukrainian forces had taken more advantageous positions for further combat operations.
What caused the retreat?
The withdrawal from Suzhi was part of a strategy by the Ukrainian military aimed at preserving the lives of personnel and strengthening defensive positions in other areas. The official summary of the General Staff does not detail all the reasons, but it is known that this tactic is part of the overall strategy of the Ukrainian Defense Forces, which also includes refusing to take excessive losses in certain areas of the front.
What does the situation look like on the front map?
According to ISW (Institute for the Study of War) , on March 12, there were reports of the capture of Suja by Russian forces, which was confirmed by geolocation images. These images indicate that the city is indeed no longer under Ukrainian control. According to the DeepState , the front line has also been updated to reflect these changes.
The situation on the Kursk front
Despite the withdrawal of the Defense Forces from Sudzhi, the enemy continues to try to break through the defenses of Ukrainian forces. On March 15, 17 clashes took place in the Kursk direction , which indicates constant tension on this front. However, the situation remains under the control of the Ukrainian military in other sectors, which allows them to maneuver and strengthen their positions.
The importance of stepping back: expert opinion
According to Oleksiy Hetman, a veteran of the Russian-Ukrainian war and a reserve major of the Armed Forces of Ukraine , the withdrawal from Sudzhi may be not only a tactical step, but also part of a larger strategy , coordinated with international partners, in particular the United States of America . Such a withdrawal tactic may be related to requirements at the strategic level and is aimed at minimizing losses and strengthening positions for future offensive operations.
What's next?
Despite the loss of Sudzhi, Ukrainian forces continue to hold key areas elsewhere, and the withdrawal from the city is part of a smart tactic to adapt to the ever-changing situation on the front. Fighting is expected to continue in the coming weeks, with the situation in Kursk Oblast remaining at a high level of tension.

