Syrskyi: Intense fighting continues in Kupiansk direction as Ukraine counters Russian assaults

Russian forces continue their active offensive operations in the Kupiansk forest, attempting to break through Ukrainian defenses and advance towards the city of Kupiansk in Kharkiv Oblast, General Oleksandr Syrskyi, the commander of the Ukrainian Ground Forces, told Interfax-Ukraine. He described the situation in this area as challenging, characterized by intense combat that began in October 2023 and has since been marked by relentless, fierce fighting. Syrskyi reported that the Russian troops conduct daily assaults on populated areas of the Kupiansk district, employing artillery and aviation. As per Syrskyi, the current focus of these attacks is in the Synkivka area, aiming to further encircle Kupiansk. Despite these aggressive moves by Russian forces, Syrskyi highlighted the effective response of Ukrainian troops.

"Our soldiers adequately respond to the enemy, thwarting their plans. Despite the situation on this front constantly escalating, our Defense Forces effectively neutralize the enemy's offensive capabilities and inflict significant losses,” he stated.

According to the Institute for the Study of War, Russian forces may intensify their efforts to capture the city of Kupiansk in the coming weeks. Earlier, The Telegraph reported on Russia's preparations for an offensive on the Kharkiv front, suggesting a potential ground assault beginning on 15 January. Read also:

• Military: Russia keeps 19,000 troops on Ukraine’s northern border
• Regional leader: Russia’s latest assaults focused on Kharkiv’s Kupiansk sector
• Ukraine FM Kuleba: Russians can’t capture us so they are trying to destroy us
• ISW: Russian troops likely to intensify offensive on Kupiansk in coming weeks