• Ukrainian forces have reportedly encircled Russian troops in Kupiansk.
• President Zelensky visited the frontline town, celebrating recent military gains.
• Ukraine claims to have liberated two settlements near Kupiansk while denying Russian advances.

Ukrainian forces have announced significant advances in the northeastern town of Kupiansk, with claims of encircling Russian troops after retaking parts of the city and several surrounding villages. This assertion came from Ihor Obolienskyi, commander of the Khartiia Corps, who stated, "Today, we can say that the Russians in the city are completely cut off" due to severed supply routes. The Russian military had previously asserted full control of Kupiansk in November, a claim Ukraine denies, asserting that combat continues in the area, according to Reuters and South China Morning Post.

During his visit to the frontline, President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the importance of the military's success for Ukraine's diplomatic efforts, stating, "Thanks to every unit, to everyone fighting here, to everyone destroying the occupier." He highlighted recent liberation of the settlements Kindrashivka and Radkivka, confirmed by the Khartia Battalion. Geolocated reports have shown Ukrainian advances, reinforcing claims that the fighting dynamics in Kupiansk are shifting, according to Al Jazeera and Le Monde.

Ukrainian officials have maintained that despite Russia's assertions of control, essential areas within Kupiansk remain contested. They argue that Russian reports of sweeping advances serve to create a narrative suggesting Ukraine is on the brink of collapse, influencing peace negotiations. As the conflict continues, U.S. diplomatic pushes for Ukraine to consider territorial concessions have also been highlighted, emphasizing the complex geopolitical stakes involved, according to Reuters, South China Morning Post, and Le Monde.