Ukrainian forces are fleeing the strategic region of Kursk after Russia took the city of Sudzha in a lightning offensive.

In August, Ukraine launched the first invasion of Russia since World War II, rapidly seizing roughly 386 square miles centered on the city of Sudzha. Kyiv hoped to use the enclave as a bargaining chip in negotiations with Moscow, exchanging the territory for Ukrainian territory occupied by Russia. After a daring surprise assault by Russian forces through a gas pipeline on Sunday, Ukrainian lines collapsed, with Russian forces seizing Sudzha on Wednesday. Just as Ukraine is looking to enter serious negotiations, it looks set to lose its greatest bargaining chip.