ISW: Ukraine's troops gain control in central Kupiansk, breaking through Russian defence

Ukraine’s Defence Forces continue offensive operations in the Kupiansk direction of the Kharkiv region, including on the outskirts and in the central part of the city, according to a new report by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

The report notes that Ukrainian troops have advanced in central Kupiansk, where operations to consolidate control over the area are ongoing, per Caliber.Az.

Journalist and serviceman of the 13th Operational Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine “Khartiia,” Yuriy Butusov, reported on Facebook that Ukrainian forces have fully secured the Yubileinyi microdistrict in southwestern Kupiansk. He said this development significantly complicates Russian forces’ ability to hold their remaining positions in the southern part of the city.

Butusov also stated that Ukrainian troops liberated Tishchenkivka by September 24, Kondrashivka by October 9, and Radkivka by October 11, allowing Ukrainian forces to break through Russian defensive lines in the area.

In addition, he reported that Ukrainian units reached the right bank of the Oskil River and, by October 21, cut Russian ground supply lines to Kupiansk from the north. At the same time, Russian forces have established a high-risk drone engagement zone in the Kupiansk direction.

ISW also said that geolocated footage published on December 12 and 13 indicates the presence of Russian sabotage and reconnaissance groups in the northern and western parts of Kupiansk.

The chief of staff of a Ukrainian drone systems battalion told analysts that Russian forces continue attempts to infiltrate Kupiansk, most often using small dismounted infantry groups.

ISW added that Russian military bloggers had previously reported Ukrainian advances into the Yubileinyi microdistrict and northwest of Kupiansk, as well as intense fighting near Myrove and Radkivka. Some of them also acknowledged the loss of Radkivka.

By Khagan Isayev