Ukrainian forces have reported an important tactical success in the Kupiansk direction in Ukraine’s Kharkiv region, where fierce fighting has continued in recent weeks. The command of the Defense Forces said that Ukrainian units carried out a counteroffensive, liberated the northwestern outskirts of the city, and blocked a group of Russian servicemen by cutting them off from ground supply routes. According to Ukrainian data, about 200 Russian soldiers have been trapped in what is described as a “cauldron”, while the northwestern part of Kupiansk is now under Ukrainian control. The operation involved units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the National Guard, the Main Intelligence Directorate, the Special Operations Forces, the Security Service of Ukraine, and territorial defense units. Russian sources had previously claimed that the city was under Moscow’s control, assertions that Kyiv disputes.

President Volodymyr Zelensky personally visited the front line, emphasizing the importance of such successes not only in military terms but also from a diplomatic perspective. In a video released by his office, he stressed that achievements on the battlefield strengthen Ukraine’s position in negotiations conducted with the support of the United States and other international partners.

According to official Ukrainian statements, a significant part of the city and surrounding settlements, including Kondrashivka and Radkivka, has already been liberated, while the remaining Russian forces are effectively encircled. Ukrainian troops continue clearing operations in central districts and are reinforcing their positions along the front line.

At the same time, the situation remains tense. Russian forces, according to Ukraine’s General Staff, are continuing attempts to resume offensive operations in the Kupiansk sector and remain actively engaged in combat across the region. Despite the challenges, Ukrainian air defense units on the front line are actively countering aerial threats, deploying new systems to combat drones and missiles.

The evacuation of civilians is ongoing. Ukrainian defenders, together with volunteers, have evacuated more than a dozen civilians from the central neighborhoods of the city, providing them with assistance in Kharkiv.

Experts note that Kupiansk, a key transport hub and strategic point in northeastern Ukraine, has repeatedly been the scene of intense fighting since the start of the full-scale conflict. Recent developments underscore that control over this section of the front remains crucial for both Kyiv and Moscow, influencing the dynamics of military operations and the course of diplomatic efforts to resolve the war.

#UKRAINE

13.12.2025 07:12