Ukrainian military officials confirmed Monday that a clearing operation in the strategic city of Kupiansk remains ongoing, with small groups of Russian soldiers trapped in isolated pockets after a successful counteroffensive. Despite fierce resistance from encircled units, the situation is being described as a controlled process of gradual elimination as Ukraine works to reestablish full authority over the urban center.
Why it matters
Kupiansk serves as a critical logistics hub in northeastern Ukraine, and its control is vital for managing movements across the Oskil River. The successful encirclement of Russian forces here represents a significant tactical setback for Moscow, particularly after Russian President Vladimir Putin had claimed the city was “liberated” on two separate occasions. Reclaiming this territory not only secures a key residential and industrial area but also disrupts Russian efforts to establish a foothold on the river’s left bank.
What to know
The push to reclaim Kupiansk has been a meticulously planned effort dating back to the autumn. According to military reports, Ukrainian forces achieved a breakthrough on December 12, successfully encircling enemy units and clearing the Yuvileynyi residential district. During the height of the counteroffensive, Russian forces reportedly suffered heavy losses, with over 1,000 soldiers killed in action.
Ukrainian troops also utilized tactical sabotage to seal the city, destroying a gas pipeline that Russian forces had been using as an infiltration route. Currently, Ukrainian forces maintain control over approximately 90% of the city. While the remaining Russian units are putting up “very fierce” resistance, they are reportedly isolated with no prospects for reinforcement or retreat. The current Kupiansk operation is focused on neutralizing these final remnants.
What people are saying
Viktor Trehubov, the official in charge of communications for the joint forces, provided an update on the progress during a national telemarathon and on Suspilne TV. He emphasized that the presence of civilians has necessitated a cautious and deliberate approach to the urban combat.
“Russians remain in a few small pockets within the city. It may take another week or two to clear these areas, but considering that the Russians have no way to break out, the situation is quite clear,” Trehubov stated. He noted that while Russian command is attempting to focus efforts on the left bank of the Oskil River, those trapped inside the city have been abandoned. Trehubov characterized the ongoing clearing of the city as a slow but positive progression toward total liberation.
What happens next
Military analysts and local officials expect the final pockets of resistance to be neutralized within the next fourteen days. Once the city is entirely cleared of the remaining Russian “pockets,” the focus of the Ukrainian defense is expected to shift toward fortifying the Oskil River line to prevent future incursions. Meanwhile, local authorities will begin the process of assessing damage to infrastructure and ensuring the safety of the civilians who remained in the city throughout the intense urban fighting.
