Ukraine's General Staff explains why Kupiansk under Ukrainian control is restricted to civilians
Illustrative photo: Ukrainian soldiers clear Kupiansk of Russian sabotage and reconnaissance units (Getty Images)
As of today, civilian access to Kupiansk in the Kharkiv region is closed for security reasons, as anti-sabotage operations continue in the city, states Major Andrii Kovalov, spokesperson for the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, in a comment to RBC-Ukraine.
According to the spokesperson, in the northern part of the city, search-and-strike operations are ongoing against Russian occupiers.
"In Kupiansk itself, active counter-sabotage measures are underway. Civilian entry is restricted to ensure these operations by the Armed Forces of Ukraine can be carried out effectively," Kovalov added.
Earlier, Andrii Besedin, head of the City Military Administration, announced the closure of the city, stating that Kupiansk is currently closed to all civilian services. Only military personnel are allowed in, making evacuation extremely difficult. Civilians wishing to leave are advised to walk outside the city, where volunteers, the State Emergency Service, or police will pick them up. Those in need of assistance can also contact the military for support.
About 1,600 residents remain in the city, located on both banks of the Oskil River. Kupiansk currently lacks electricity, water, gas, and social services.
Earlier, the Dnipro Operational-Strategic Group of Troops stated that Russian forces continue to attempt to insert personnel and secure positions in Kupiansk. Still, the Defense Forces respond to every such attempt.
Analysts at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) note that the Russians do not control any district of Kupiansk. However, they disguise themselves as civilians or Ukrainian soldiers to secretly set up observation posts.
