The northeastern Ukrainian city of Kupyansk teeters on the brink of full liberation, with reports indicating a dramatic collapse of Russian defenses. Ukrainian military officials suggest that remaining Russian forces within the city are increasingly isolated and demoralized, facing a critical breakdown in supply lines.
According to Viktor Trehubov, a spokesperson for Ukraine’s Joint Forces, the number of Russian soldiers left inside Kupyansk has dwindled to just several dozen. This includes not only Russian troops, but also foreign mercenaries fighting alongside them, many of whom are now surrendering to Ukrainian forces.
These isolated units are relying almost entirely on precarious air resupply, a method Ukrainian officials deem unsustainable for any prolonged defense. The logistical challenges are immense, and the ability to reinforce or extract troops is severely limited.
Despite continued, albeit weakened, assaults along the Kupyansk axis, Russia lacks the manpower and reserves necessary to alter the battlefield dynamics. Ukrainian assessments indicate a clear inability to restore their previous positions or mount a significant counteroffensive.
A striking shift in narrative is emerging from within Russia itself. Pro-Kremlin military bloggers and war correspondents are openly acknowledging the loss of control over Kupyansk, a significant departure from previous messaging.
Ukrainian officials emphasize that Russia never truly consolidated control over Kupyansk following its initial liberation in September 2022, beyond a fleeting occupation during the invasion’s early stages. Attempts to re-establish a foothold have consistently failed.
Efforts by Russian units to fortify positions in the city’s northern districts proved futile, trapping them without the ability to withdraw or receive reinforcements. They are now admitting the failure of their defensive strategy.
While fighting continues in the surrounding areas, particularly across the Oskil River, Ukrainian forces firmly control Kupyansk itself. Recent Ukrainian counteroffensive actions have further disrupted Russian attempts to stabilize the front line.
The recent counteroffensive caught the enemy completely off guard, leaving them critically short on resources. They simply lack the capacity to regain control of the strategically important city.
Kupyansk, a vital rail and road hub with a pre-war population of approximately 27,000, has long been a key objective in Russia’s territorial ambitions. Its history, including a brief occupation and subsequent liberation in 2022, is a narrative Russia has attempted to distort through disinformation.
The city’s liberation represents a significant blow to Russian forces and a testament to the resilience of Ukrainian defenders. The unfolding situation suggests a decisive turning point in the battle for northeastern Ukraine.
