Features|Russia-Ukraine warMoscow’s narrative wobbles as Ukraine takes back KupianskMoscow is struggling to back up claims it has seized Kupiansk and Pokrovsk, and to deny a submarine was struck in Novorossiysk.
Recent military actions have seen Ukrainian forces regain control of significant areas, challenging Russian narratives of dominance in the region. In the northern city of Kupiansk, Ukraine's strategic operations have largely isolated Russian forces,…
Recent military actions have seen Ukrainian forces regain control of significant areas, challenging Russian narratives of dominance in the region. In the northern city of Kupiansk, Ukraine's strategic operations have largely isolated Russian forces, contradicting Moscow's claims of control.
Ukrainian troops reported successful disruption of Russian logistics in Kupiansk as of Tue, Dec 12, 2025, surrounding approximately 200 Russian soldiers. Subsequent footage confirmed Ukrainian advances within the city and the recapture of the southern suburb of Yuvileynyi. Russian forces have been pushed to the northern and western outskirts.
As of Mon, Ukrainian forces continued to repel Russian reinforcements. Russia's Ministry of Defence maintains that control over Kupiansk remains secure under their forces, although reports indicate otherwise.
Ukraine's military leadership, including Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskii, states that 90% of Kupiansk is now under Ukrainian control. Despite Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov's assertions of Russian dominance, the evidence suggests otherwise.
Recent military actions have seen Ukrainian forces regain control of significant areas, challenging Russian narratives of dominance in the region.
Underwater Vehicle Strike on Submarine
In a notable military development, Ukraine successfully employed an underwater unmanned vehicle to damage a Russian Kilo-class submarine on Mon, Dec 15, 2025. Visual recordings showed significant damage, despite Russian denials of any impact.
Additional Ukrainian long-range strikes targeted Russian infrastructure, including oil refineries and power plants, achieving further tactical gains.
Recruitment and Casualty Discrepancies
Russia reports a volunteer recruitment of 410,000 for military service in 2025, translating to approximately 32,800 recruits monthly. However, Ukrainian estimates suggest higher Russian casualties, averaging 34,600 monthly, which may not be fully offset by recruitment efforts.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and military leaders express skepticism about Russia's ability to sustain troop numbers given ongoing losses, with reports indicating a significant discrepancy between recruitment and battlefield casualties.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
