Russian Troops Hold Lines as Fighting Intensifies Near Kupyansk
Russian forces repel repeated Ukrainian attacks near Kupyansk in Kharkov Region as drone strikes continue and the Defense Ministry reports heavy Ukrainian losses.
Russian forces continue to repel Ukrainian assault attempts in the Kupyansk area of Kharkov Region, where intense fighting has been ongoing for several days, according to military sources.
The situation is being complicated by harsh weather conditions, with snow mixed with rain providing cover for Ukrainian units as they repeatedly send new infantry groups into attacks. Despite the unfavorable conditions, Russian drone operators are continuing to strike Ukrainian equipment and personnel.
In its December 30 briefing on the course of the special military operation, Russia’s Defense Ministry reported that over the past 24 hours, the 6th Army repelled two attacks by Ukraine’s 14th Mechanized Brigade and 92nd Assault Brigade on the Kupyansk axis. The assaults were aimed at breaking through Russian defenses near the settlements of Blagodatovka and Velikaya Shapkovka. The ministry said up to 20 Ukrainian fighters were eliminated during the clashes.
Within the area of responsibility of Russia’s West group of forces, Ukrainian units sustained heavy losses. According to the report, more than 190 servicemen were killed, along with the destruction of a U.S.-made HMMWV armored vehicle, one artillery piece, and 18 vehicles. Russian forces also destroyed an electronic warfare station and five ammunition depots.