Im afraid Putins Russia have a totally different view than you and me, and unfortunately, he is still an respected leader. Of course always different opinions, but I guess same as we read here among us, westerns who understand everything is not great here either.
The targets Ukrainian do, I bet is cleared with Usa and Nato, so they cant just fire missiles where ever they want. Also most likely intelligence information from Nato member as well used.
Invading Kursk I believe was a response in fear of Trump getting the seat back and start dictating how this is going to end, and a Trumf card if can say so. Personally I would not hold Kursk but continue attacking where ever they hold forces and supplies continuously, and and not risking human resources by trying to hold a piece of land inside Russia, but what do I really know?