Most of Kupiansk in Kharkiv Oblast remains under the control of Ukrainian defence forces, while Russian units in the northern areas are cut off from ground supply. Meanwhile, the Russians have been ordered to give the appearance of controlling the city.

Source: Ukraine's Joint Forces Group

Details: The Joint Forces Group reported that Russian troops in Kupiansk have been ordered to create the illusion of controlling the city by waving Russian flags where their small units are present.

Russian forces have started including flags in supply packages for their troops, which are then dropped on the city by drones.

The Ukrainian military said, "At least one such 'operation' has taken place – we are expecting a short and abruptly ending video in all Russian media."

Quote: "On behalf of Ukraine's defenders, we state: the occupation of a city cannot be faked. Despite claims by Vladimir Putin and the Russian General Staff about the 'encirclement' of Kupiansk and Ukrainian forces there, most of the city remains under the control of Ukraine's defence forces, while Russian units in the northern areas are cut off from ground supply. This stunt is an attempt to put on a brave face in a losing battle and cover up the obvious falsehood of the Russian regime's leader."

Background: On 11 November, Viktor Trehubov, Head of Communications for the Joint Forces Group, said Russian occupation troops were trying to hold positions in the northern areas of Kupiansk, while Ukrainian units were actively carrying out counterattacks, forcing the Russians out of their fortifications.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon !