The Ukrainian operation in Russia’s Kursk region began in late July with several days of airstrikes before Kyiv’s ground forces quickly advanced several miles deep into Russian territory on August 6.
In the regional capital, those who left their homes as Ukrainian forces tore into western Russia are uncertain whether they can ever return to their old lives.
The settlements sit south of Korenovo, a Russian border town around which heavy clashes have been taking place for more than a week and a half.
Ukrainian troops have destroyed another key bridge in the Kursk region, as they continue their campaign inside Russia.