Military analyst Aleksey Zhivov believes that the Russian army aims to liberate Kupyansk and Krasnoarmeysk (known in Ukraine as Pokrovsk) before the end of this year. According to him, both cities are expected to be taken without large-scale destruction.

Zhivov noted that Ukrainian forces currently encircled in these areas are likely to hold their ground until the last standing building, following a pattern seen throughout the conflict. He pointed out that such tactics have become characteristic of Ukrainian defense strategy.

The expert explained that Russian forces have developed a specific operational approach now being applied in Kupyansk and Pokrovsk. It involves surrounding the cities from all directions, conducting measured assaults within urban areas, and cutting off enemy supply routes on the outskirts to disrupt logistics.

Zhivov also drew a historical parallel with the Great Patriotic War, when the Soviet army often left the enemy a narrow corridor for retreat. That method, he recalled, made it possible to liberate cities faster and with fewer losses. According to him, a similar strategy is being implemented today in Kupyansk and Krasnoarmeysk to minimize destruction and reduce casualties while maintaining steady progress on the battlefield.