Zelenskyy denies Russian claims of encircling Ukrainian forces near Kupiansk and Pokrovsk

Earlier today, Russian generals told Vladimir Putin that their forces had allegedly surrounded up to 5,000 Ukrainian soldiers in Pokrovsk and Kupiansk. That claim is untrue.

"It's a complete lie. And not the first one," Zelenskyy said.

He explained that such statements are meant to provoke panic. This time, however, the disinformation appears aimed at the United States — to create the illusion that Russia is gaining ground on the battlefield.

Zelenskyy said he has up-to-date information from the General Staff and from Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi.

According to him, Russian activity near Kupiansk and Pokrovsk this week was 1.5 to 2 times lower than in previous periods. He added that Ukrainian forces are in control of the situation and that such reports are no more than Kremlin disinformation maneuvers.

Frontline situation

As of 4:00 PM Kyiv time, 71 combat clashes had been recorded since the start of the day.

The General Staff said Ukrainian troops repelled four Russian attacks in the Kupiansk direction and 17 in the Pokrovsk direction.

Zelenskyy added that Russian forces have concentrated their main assault group near Pokrovsk. He also confirmed the presence of Russian sabotage and reconnaissance groups in the area.

"Right there, against Pokrovsk, the Russians have concentrated their main assault group. This involves a significant number of enemy troops. Naturally, this creates a difficult situation in Pokrovsk and all neighboring districts. There are intense battles in the city and on its approaches. Sabotage and reconnaissance groups are present in the city. Logistics is challenging," the President said in his evening video address.