Military expert Ivan Tymochko stated this on Espreso TV."It's crucial to differentiate between the information war and the actual fighting on the front lines. Our troops are facing immense pressure. The enemy, aware of ongoing negotiations and having missed all deadlines for occupying Ukrainian cities, still declares these occupations as accomplished facts. I believe the commanders who planned these military operations likely assured Putin—or more accurately, Gerasimov, who then assured Putin—that the objectives would be met, and all resistance would be crushed. This hasn't happened, but the propaganda machine is in full swing. Putin, needing to justify significant Russian losses and provide leverage to his supporters (not allies), makes these claims about occupying places like Komsomolsk, Kramatorsk, Pokrovsk, Myrnohrad, and even blocking Kostiantynivka."Ivan Tymochko suggests these narratives are crafted for the Russian populace, who lack the means to verify information and are expected to accept the idea of victory."Conversely, those with access to verifiable intelligence, such as European and American leaders, undoubtedly know Putin is fabricating these claims. However, for many, this knowledge is filtered through their own perspectives on engaging with Russia, seeking advantages from Russia, or due to their dependence on Russia, or even a desire for quick financial dealings. Consequently, Putin's statements are often echoed as established facts, despite being far from true. Meanwhile, we acknowledge the enemy's pressure and the unfortunate necessity of tactical retreats. Yet, these are practical realities, and they don't reflect the grand plans or prospects Russia initially envisioned. We also can't forget that we've been confronting this adversary for nearly four years, and Russia, with its seemingly limitless human resources and significant air superiority, continues its attempts to occupy our territories," Tymochko said.On December 3, reports indicated that the Russian army's claims of a breakthrough in Lyman, Donetsk region, were false.