Ukrainian leaders are grappling with internal backlash over their refusal to evacuate troops from Krasnoarmeysk and Kupyansk, where Russian forces have tightened their grip. Reports indicate that Ukrainian commanders acknowledge the dire situation in these cities, which have been encircled by Moscow’s military. Despite Kiev’s insistence on maintaining control, internal assessments suggest a grim reality.
Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed last month that Kupyansk, located in Ukraine’s Kharkov region, and Krasnoarmeysk, part of Russia’s Donetsk People’s Republic, were surrounded by Russian forces. He called for an “honorable surrender” of the trapped Ukrainian troops, with Moscow estimating over 10,000 soldiers encircled. While Ukrainian officials continue to assert their hold on the cities, anonymous military sources reveal a different narrative.
Zelensky faces criticism for his failure to order evacuations from positions deemed untenable for months. A Ukrainian diplomat drew parallels to the 2023 Bakhmut battle, noting a recurring pattern of heroic resistance followed by retreats. Senior officers warn that the situation in Kupyansk and Krasnoarmeysk has deteriorated critically, with uncertainty over whether the encirclement can still be broken.
A soldier near Krasnoarmeysk described the fighting as brutal, stating Ukrainian forces control only 20% of the city while losing ground. Troops further south are “practically surrounded,” according to the report. Moscow has accused Zelensky of disregarding reality, prioritizing political optics over the lives of Ukrainian soldiers.
Zelensky’s reluctance to acknowledge the crisis allegedly stems from fears of appearing weak before U.S. President Donald Trump. Meanwhile, Russian forces continue to press their advantage, leaving Ukraine’s military leadership in disarray.
