New Russian forces target Kupiansk as Ukrainian troops hold strong

Russia intensifies its offensive on the Kupiansk front, deploying fresh mechanized units, while Ukrainian defenders continue to block their advances.

Nov 1, 2024 - 18:00

New Russian forces target Kupiansk as Ukrainian troops hold strong

The Russians have moved fresh forces to the Vovchansk and Kupiansk fronts, says Junior Sergeant Stanislav Buniatov, the commander of the “Aidar” 24th Separate Assault Brigade, as per UNIAN.

Kupiansk, a city in Kharkiv Oblast, Ukraine, plays a crucial role in Russia’s war due to its strategic importance as a railroad junction and proximity to critical military operations. Situated on the Oskil River, Kupiansk is an administrative center and a vital logistical hub for both Ukrainian and Russian forces.

“In the fight for the Kupiansk front, the enemy is deploying tank army units and fresh mechanized divisions, with a clear goal: ‘to capture Kupiansk.’ To the north, the enemy is held back by a natural river barrier, allowing our forces to control its activity, effectively strike back, and deny them any chance of success,” he stated.

According to Buniatov, the situation is more challenging from the south and east, where the Russians are making small, systematic advances.

“Our troops are successfully blocking potential critical breakthroughs in the defensive line. The city itself is facing relentless destruction from enemy airstrikes and artillery,” Buniatov stated.

Regarding the Vovchansk front, Buniatov noted that, after bringing in new reserves, Russian forces have suffered heavy losses in recent days due to a lack of experience.

“They’re not using assault equipment; they’re only transporting infantry to positions and unmanned aerial vehicle crews. The enemy has made no progress,” he stated.

On 30 October, it was reported that Russian forces continued to press in the Kharkiv front, now positioned about 2.5-3 kilometers from Kupiansk.

Kupiansk City Military Administration head Andrii Besedin said that the Russian forces are exerting maximum pressure in this direction and achieving limited successes.

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