Russian forces are attempting to regain control over Kupiansk by sending infantry groups into the city through a disused gas pipeline, according to Victor Trehubov, spokesperson for the Joint Forces Group, in a comment to Suspilne.
In December 2025, Ukraine’s Defense Forces cleared the northwestern outskirts of Kupiansk, a city which Russian Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov had previously claimed was “captured” in a report to Vladimir Putin. This operation cut off ground logistics for Russian forces that had already entered the city and were attempting to entrench themselves.
The same pipe tactics has been used in Sumy Oblast days ago.
“Route through Holubivka”: old pipe, new attempt at assault
“There is a problem. This is Holubivka, through which the Russians are trying to enter the city. They have resumed attempts to move through Holubivka and through pipes,” the military spokesperson said.
Those pipelines are still there, and despite heavy losses, the Russians are trying to get through.
Nonstop frontline: simultaneous pressure along Oskil line
According to Trehubov, Russai is also intensifying attacks along the entire contact line on the left bank of the Oskil River bridgehead, attempting to expand the area of pressure.
Particularly intense activity is being recorded toward Kivsharivka, where Russian units are trying to advance in small groups.
“They are flattering themselves”
“They are lying that they are already in Kupiansk-Vuzlovyi, but they are flattering themselves too much,” the spokesperson added.
Kupiansk remains a hotspot in 2026. The city is under Ukrainian control, but Russia has renewed intensive pressure from multiple directions. The situation remains tense both on the frontline and in terms of personnel and supply support.
Earlier, Ukraine’s military dismissed the commander of the 14th Separate Mechanized Brigade following a public scandal over four troops reportedly left without adequate food and water on a frontline position on the Kupiansk front.
The General Staff said additional supplies have since reached the affected position, and efforts are ongoing to stabilize logistics, reinforce air defenses, and expand electronic warfare capabilities in the area.
