Russian forces have stepped up offensive operations in the Kupiansk district of Ukraine's Kharkiv region, sustaining heavy casualties while increasing pressure on Ukrainian positions and logistics, according to Viktor Trehubov, spokesperson for the Khortytsia Operational-Strategic Group of Forces.
"The situation around Kupiansk is difficult because the Russians have significantly intensified their attacks," Trehubov said during a televised interview.
He explained that the situation differs on either side of the Oskil River.
"East of the Oskil, Russian forces are pushing aggressively through Kivsharivka toward Kupiansk-Vuzlovyi, attempting to split the Ukrainian bridgehead on the eastern bank of the river. They are facing strong resistance and suffering heavy losses, but they continue their assaults regardless," he said.
According to Trehubov, the situation has also deteriorated west of the river, where Russian forces have increased attempts to enter Kupiansk from the north and establish positions in the city's northern districts.
"The Russian forces are being eliminated in large numbers there, but they continue to intensify the pressure, committing the reserves they built up over the summer," he added.
Trehubov noted that logistics on the eastern bank of the Oskil River have become more challenging due to the activity of Russian drone operators and constant aerial attacks.
"Overall, our logistics are functioning better than the Russians'. There are some relatively difficult sections, but the situation remains manageable," he said.
The spokesperson also said it is too early to assess Russia's mobilization potential after its autumn elections.
"We don't yet know in what condition Russia will reach those elections. Ukraine's long-range strikes are affecting the Russian economy and public sentiment, which will also influence the situation," Trehubov said.
