Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has visited the frontline city of Kupiansk following a major counteroffensive by Ukrainian forces that has reportedly cleared Russian troops from the north-western parts of the city.
In a video message released after the visit, Zelensky confirmed that Ukrainian soldiers had achieved significant gains on the outskirts of Kupiansk, leaving remaining Russian forces inside the city at risk of being encircled. He praised the troops on the ground and personally congratulated them during his visit.
“Today, it’s about Kupiansk — about our soldiers who are achieving results for Ukraine,” Zelensky said. “Many Russians talked about Kupiansk. We can see that. I was there, congratulated the guys, and thanked every unit, everyone who is fighting here and destroying the occupiers.”
Kupiansk, a strategically important logistics hub in eastern Ukraine, has been a focal point of recent fighting. Military analysts say the latest advances could severely disrupt Russian supply lines and weaken their ability to hold positions in the region.
Zelensky emphasized that battlefield success plays a crucial role beyond the military front, linking territorial gains directly to Ukraine’s diplomatic strength. According to him, strong positions on the ground strengthen Ukraine’s leverage in any discussions aimed at ending the war.
“This is how it works,” the president said. “Strong positions inside the country are strong positions in the conversation about ending the war. I thank every soldier. I am proud of you.”
He also paid special tribute to Ukraine’s Land Forces, calling the day “exclusively your day,” and reaffirmed his gratitude to all units involved in the operation.
The visit underscores Ukraine’s confidence following recent counteroffensive operations and signals continued pressure on Russian forces as Kyiv seeks to consolidate gains both militarily and diplomatically.
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