Ukrainian forces have regained control of parts of the northeastern town of Kupiansk and several surrounding villages. The development marks a significant shift in the ongoing battles in the Kharkiv region. According to Ukrainian military officials, Russian troops positioned inside the town now face complete encirclement.
Ukrainian Forces Regain Ground in Kupiansk
A senior Ukrainian commander confirmed that units operating in Kupiansk cut off Russian forces from essential routes.
He explained that Russian soldiers inside the town were initially unaware of the scale of the Ukrainian advance. However, they now recognise that they are fully surrounded, leaving them with limited manoeuvring options.
Several hundred Russian troops are believed to be trapped as Ukrainian units continue to consolidate control over key locations.
Russian Supply Routes Severed
Ukrainian officials stated that supply routes used by Russian units have been blocked. This move forms part of a broader counter-operation designed to weaken Russian positions along the northeastern front.
While Russia had earlier claimed complete control of Kupiansk, Ukraine consistently disputed that assertion and maintained that heavy fighting never stopped.
Conflicting Claims Across the Frontline
Both sides continue to issue competing battlefield claims. Russia says its forces are advancing on multiple fronts and have captured several strategic points, including Pokrovsk and Siversk. Ukraine contradicts these claims, insisting that battles are ongoing and that these towns remain under its control.
These differing statements highlight the fluid nature of the conflict, where rapid changes make independent verification difficult.
Updated Mapping Shows Ukrainian Gains
Ukraine’s battlefield mapping initiatives now show at least three villages to the north and west of Kupiansk back under Ukrainian control.
Northern parts of Kupiansk also appear to be held by Ukrainian forces, further supporting reports of Russian troops being encircled in the city centre.
Strategic Importance of Kupiansk
Kupiansk has held strategic value since the early phases of the conflict. Its location and road networks play a major role in supply movement. Therefore, the recent Ukrainian push in the area carries both symbolic and tactical significance.
