Kupiansk Clash: Control Battle in Northeastern Ukraine

Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov reported Ukraine's unsuccessful attempts to control Kupiansk. Ukraine claimed control of 90% of Kharkiv, recaptured in 2022. Russia asserted territorial gains in Ukraine by 2025 and reduced Ukrainian energy capacity. Accusations rose against European leaders for prolonging the conflict.

Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov has announced Ukraine's unsuccessful efforts to seize Kupiansk, a northeastern town that once held a population of around 26,000 before the conflict.

Ukraine earlier declared it had control over 90% of Kharkiv, a town it previously counteroffensived in September 2022, which Russia claimed to have taken in November. During a televised meeting with top defense officials, Belousov stated that Russia managed to gain significantly more ground in Ukraine by 2025 compared to 2024. He added that Russian airstrikes have significantly diminished Ukraine's energy-generating capabilities.

Reuters could not independently verify these battlefield reports. Belousov further claimed that European leaders' attempts to extend the war risk extending the conflict into 2026. Russia has continuously accused European countries of undermining peace talks between the U.S. and Russia.

(With inputs from agencies.)