MOSCOW - Russian forces recaptured five settlements in the Kursk region over the past day, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Wednesday.

"Forces of the north group have liberated the settlements of Kazachya Loknya, 1-y Knyazhiy, 2-y Knyazhiy, Zamoste, and Mirnyi during offensive operations," the ministry said in a statement, adding that the Ukraine side lost over 260 soldiers in the region's battle over the day.

ALSO READ: Russia recaptures 3 settlements in Kursk region

Meanwhile, according to a Tass report, Russian forces have taken control of the central districts of Sudzha city, the main population center in the contested Kursk region.