Ukraine regains ground in Kupiansk as Russian troops face encirclement
Ukrainian forces have reclaimed key positions around Kupiansk in the northeastern Kharkiv region, surrounding Russian troops in a decisive counteroffensive that challenges Moscow’s recent claims of control over the city. The operation, launched as part of Ukraine’s ongoing effort to stabilize the eastern front, was led by the 2nd National Guard Corps “Khartia,” which confirmed the liberation of the villages of Kindrashivka and Radkivka as well as northern neighborhoods in Kupiansk.
According to Ukrainian field commanders, Russian units in the city are now largely cut off. “For a long time, they did not realize what was happening, but now they know they are encircled,” said Ihor Obolienskyi, commander of the Khartia Corps. The capture of these positions has disrupted key supply routes used by Russian forces, significantly weakening their capacity to reinforce or withdraw.
During a visit to the frontlines, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that recent battlefield gains strengthen Ukraine’s hand in ongoing negotiations. Standing near the bullet-scarred city sign at Kupiansk’s entrance, he stated that progress on the ground remains crucial to achieving diplomatic success, reinforcing that “real results” come from victories in combat rather than claims of control.
Strategic context
The advance represents a serious setback for Russia after Moscow’s announcement in November that its troops had secured Kupiansk. Ukrainian officials dismissed those claims as part of a broader disinformation campaign. Ongoing fighting in the city center continues to trap several hundred Russian soldiers, while Ukraine reports over a thousand enemy casualties since the start of the operation in late September.
Peace negotiations
The renewed momentum on the front coincides with intensified peace discussions led by the United States, which has reportedly urged Kyiv to consider territorial compromises in the Donetsk region. President Zelenskyy has reiterated that any such terms would require public approval through a national referendum, questioning the reliability of Russian compliance with any proposed demilitarized buffer.
Russian advisers, meanwhile, have maintained that their internal security forces would remain stationed in the Donbas region even if an agreement were reached. President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed that Russia’s military objectives remain unchanged, including full control of Donetsk, despite international efforts to mediate a settlement.
