Russian occupation forces have intensified their pressure on the Kupyansk direction, launching simultaneous attacks from both banks of the Oskil River in an attempt to destabilize the Ukrainian defense line and identify vulnerable spots. According to Viktor Tregubov, a representative of the Joint Forces, speaking on the national telethon, the enemy is resorting to unconventional infiltration tactics. Meanwhile, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports a consistently tense situation across the frontline, as the Ukrainian Navy continues to degrade Russia’s maritime capabilities, recently destroying two enemy patrol boats guarding the Kerch Bridge.
Analyzing the current operational situation, the Russian offensive strategy can be divided into two main vectors: the right and left banks of the Oskil River. Each presents unique challenges for the Ukrainian defenders.
On the right bank, Russian units are attempting to advance toward Kupyansk from the north. According to Tregubov, the occupiers have managed to push closer to the village of Holubivka. A significant danger lies in the enemy’s use of industrial and municipal infrastructure for concealed movement. Specifically, Russian assault groups are utilizing large underground pipes in their attempts to infiltrate the northern districts of the city. While Ukrainian forces are currently succeeding in detecting and eliminating these sabotage and reconnaissance units, the situation has become considerably more complex since the enemy reached Holubivka.
Simultaneously, the enemy continues its relentless assaults on the left bank of the Oskil, where the Armed Forces of Ukraine hold a robust bridgehead. The Russian command aims to push Ukrainian troops back across the river to secure their own logistical routes and set the stage for further advances. The primary thrust here is directed at Kupyansk-Vuzlovyi, a strategically vital railway hub. Tregubov emphasized that the most active breakthrough attempts are occurring near the settlement of Kivsharivka. The occupiers have massed significant forces there, attacking Ukrainian positions from multiple flanks and creating intense pressure on this sector.
The tactic of infiltrating through underground pipes is not entirely new. Similar methods were observed during the defense of Avdiivka, demonstrating that the enemy is adapting and seeking to avoid open terrain, where they are highly vulnerable to Ukrainian artillery and FPV drones. However, the Ukrainian defenders maintain their resilience.
The broader context of the war shows that Ukraine’s localized defense is heavily supported by deep strikes against Russian assets. The recent destruction of Russian naval vessels highlights Ukraine’s ability to disrupt enemy logistics far beyond the contact line. Furthermore, systemic strikes on Russian airfields and UAV command centers significantly reduce the enemy’s capacity to support its infantry assaults with air power.
The defense of Kupyansk remains a top priority for the Armed Forces of Ukraine, given the city’s critical role in controlling logistical routes in the eastern Kharkiv region. Despite the numerical superiority of the enemy, Ukrainian defenders continue to inflict heavy losses, preventing the Russian forces from achieving their tactical objectives.