Approximately 200 Russian soldiers blocked in Kupiansk, city's liberation proceeds cautiously — Defense Forces

As reported by Ukrinform, Viktor Tregubov, Head of the Communications Directorate of the Joint Forces Task Force, stated this during a television broadcast while answering questions about the operational situation in the Kupiansk area.

“The situation is evolving, because the Russians are currently effectively blocked inside the city, and a gradual squeezing-out process is underway. You may have heard reports about how this is happening, including the liberation of civilian hostages whom the Russians were using as human shields, including children. This explains why it doesn't happen instantly. It would be easy to strike exclusively at positions where the Russians are entrenched, but that could lead to civilian casualties and unnecessary destruction, which we seek to avoid. On the other hand, we also want to prevent losses on the Ukrainian side during urban assaults. At present, actions aimed at eliminating the Russian contingent in the city are being carried out cautiously,” he said.

Tregubov noted that the Russians have shifted their position slightly toward the city center in Kupiansk.

“According to preliminary assessments by our intelligence, as of the end of last week, there were 40 active call signs on the handheld transceiver. This means that 40 people are actively using handheld transceivers, resulting in 40 unique users of handheld transceivers. Typically, there is roughly one handheld transceiver for every three to four people. Accordingly, we calculate that there are somewhere between 100 and 200 of them. By our estimates, most likely closer to 200,” he said.

Additionally, Tregubov discussed the situation around Vovchansk. According to him, the enemy is attempting to advance and infiltrate there. Ukrainian defenses are currently built along the Vovcha River.

At the same time, in the Lyman sector, the spokesperson noted active Russian offensive actions, particularly in the direction of Lyman. Tregubov stated that the situation there is challenging.

He added that the situation in the Velykyi Burluk sector is relatively stable. Near Borova, the enemy is also attempting to advance, but without success.

As Ukrinform reported, Russian units located in the Kharkiv region, in the northern part of Kupiansk and its outskirts, are blocked and cannot receive reinforcements or full logistical support.