The Ukrainian Armed Forces achieved a staggering superiority during the battles for Kupiansk, killing 27 Russian soldiers for every one Ukrainian defender lost. British intelligence presented these figures during a briefing for government officials. This ratio highlights the extreme intensity of the combat and the effectiveness of Ukrainian defensive and counter-offensive operations in the region.
The Times reported this information, citing Western intelligence data. While the exact number of Russian fatalities remains unconfirmed, total Russian losses in this sector throughout 2025 are estimated in the thousands. Before Christmas, Ukrainian units surrounded approximately 200 Russian soldiers within the city. This encirclement followed successful counter-strikes by the 2nd Corps of the “Khartia” National Guard. These actions effectively disrupted the invaders’ local command structure and supply routes.
Context of the liberation
The situation in the Kupiansk direction shifted decisively in favor of Ukraine in December 2025. Defense forces liberated several strategic settlements, including Kindrashivka and Radkivka. This advance allowed Ukrainian troops to reach the Oskil River and sever the ground logistics of the Russian occupation forces. Additionally, the military destroyed a gas pipeline that the enemy used to enter the city undetected.
On January 12, 2026, military officials announced the complete clearing of Kupiansk and the recovery of the city council building. The Yuvileinyi district is also under full Ukrainian control. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy personally visited the frontline city to decorate the troops and emphasize the strategic importance of this victory. Currently, Russian forces are retreating from most positions, although small sabotage groups occasionally appear on the outskirts. This success significantly strengthens Ukraine’s position for any future diplomatic negotiations.
Previously, The Ukrainian Review reported that Ukrainian forces were successfully pushing back occupiers in the Kupiansk sector, setting the stage for full regional de-occupation.
