Ukrainian forces disclose number of Russian soldiers trapped in Kupiansk
Photo: Ukraine's military says how many Russian troops are blocked in Kupiansk (Getty Images)
Ukrainian forces are liberating Kupiansk in the Kharkiv region with extreme caution to minimize losses. About 200 Russian soldiers are currently blocked inside the town, stated Viktor Trehubov, head of communications for Ukraine's Joint Forces Grouping.
"According to preliminary intelligence estimates, as of the end of last week, 40 active call signs were detected on Russian radio communications. This indicates that 40 individuals are actively using radios, meaning 40 unique radio users," Trehubov said.
He explained that typically one radio is used by three, or sometimes four, soldiers. Based on this calculation, the number of Russian troops in the town is estimated at between 100 and 200, most likely closer to 200.
"The situation is evolving, as Russian forces are now effectively blocked inside the town and are being gradually pushed out. It would be easy to strike only the positions where Russian troops are entrenched, but that could lead to civilian casualties and unnecessary destruction, which we are trying to avoid," Trehubov said.
He added that Ukrainian forces are also seeking to prevent losses during urban assault operations. As a result, actions to eliminate Russian forces in the town are being carried out carefully.
Trehubov also said that Russian troops are attempting to advance around Vovchansk, while Ukrainian defensive lines are currently built along the Vovcha River.
At the same time, active Russian assaults have been recorded in the Lyman direction, particularly toward Lyman. The situation in the Velykyi Burluk direction remains relatively stable. Near Borova, Russian forces are also attempting to advance, but without success.
Ukrainian operation in Kupiansk
On December 12, Russian forces were surrounded in Kupiansk. The command of the 2nd Corps of Ukraine's National Guard Khartiia reported a successful counterattack by Ukraine's Defense Forces near the town.
Ukrainian troops managed to clear the Yuvileinyi residential district of Russian soldiers. During the counteroffensive operations, Russian forces reportedly lost more than 1,000 soldiers killed.
Ukrainian forces in Kupiansk also destroyed a gas pipeline that Russian troops had been using to infiltrate the town, effectively cutting off their access routes.
