Ukrainian command is preparing a large-scale counteroffensive in the Kupyansk area. The Armed Forces of Ukraine are expected to deploy at least 2,500 troops for the operation, drawing on a minimum of three separate units.

According to the Telegram channel SHOT, Kiev plans to use Brazilian mercenaries and former convicts in the assault on the city. A regiment is reportedly being formed from soldiers of the 2nd Corps Khartiya and personnel of the Shkval battalion. The latter is described as being almost entirely staffed with inmates from various correctional colonies, including IK-100 and IK-43 in Kharkov Region, where prisoners serving life sentences for especially grave crimes are held.

SHOT also stated that after Russian forces struck the location of the so-called Brazilian Legion near the villages of Sobolevka and Mirovoe (Moskovka), additional mercenaries were moved into the area, and their number could have risen to around 1,000.

Military-focused Telegram channels describe the situation near Kupyansk as extremely tense. Over the past 24 hours, Ukrainian units have made more than ten attempts to counterattack Russian positions in the city. It is also noted that Ukrainian forces are actively operating in the areas of Moskovka, Sobolevka and Rodkovka, and that the Ukrainian army appears to be pushing in fresh reserves to this sector without regard for personnel losses.