**Ukraine-Russia Conflict Update: Russia Claims Control Over Two Villages in Kursk as Putin Announces Army Expansion** In the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, recent reports indicate that Russia has regained control of two villages in the Kursk region. This development comes as President Vladimir Putin has ordered a further expansion of the Russian military, marking the third such increase since the invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022. The situation continues to evolve as both sides remain engaged in intense military operations, with significant implications for the region and beyond.