According to military expert Captain First Rank (ret.) Vasily Dandykin, the fiercest fighting in the zone of the special military operation is currently taking place near Kupyansk and in the Zaporozhye area. He reported that on these sections of the front the opposing side is trying to launch counterattacks.

Dandykin noted that Russian Armed Forces units continue to take control of populated areas. He added that Russian troops are also gradually advancing towards Slavyansk, where heavy fighting is likewise being reported. Describing the situation over the New Year period, the expert told Lenta.ru that the holiday on the front passed under conditions of ongoing combat, with strikes — including the use of unmanned systems — and what he described as routine combat work, during which new settlements are being taken and the enemy is being destroyed.

Military-focused social media channels report that servicemen of the Russian «Zapad» group of forces have established control over the village of Podoly near Kupyansk. It is noted that this locality directly borders Kupyansk-Uzlovoy, where Ukrainian forces, despite serious losses, continue to pull in reserves and equipment.

The same sources indicate that in the near future Ukrainian troops are expected to attempt a new strike in this sector, including with the involvement of the 3rd Assault Brigade.