President Vladimir Putin visited Russia’s Kursk region for the first time since Moscow claimed that it drove Ukrainian forces out of the area last month, the Kremlin said Wednesday.

The Russian leader traveled to the region in the west of the country where a surprise incursion last year embarrassed Moscow.

President Putin recently visited the Kursk region, marking his first trip since Russia claimed full control after ousting Ukrainian forces with North Korean support. He met local volunteers displaying pro-invasion symbols and lauded their efforts during this challenging period.