Zelensky Debunks Russian Claims with Frontline Visit to Kupiansk: Visual Proof of Ukrainian Control

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently visited Kupiansk, a strategic city that Russia had claimed to control last month. By recording video and sharing a selfie from the frontline location, Zelensky effectively dispelled Russian claims of occupying the area.

Kupiansk, situated in Kharkiv Oblast near the Russian border, has become a critical focal point in the ongoing conflict. Despite the Kremlin's assertions that Russian troops had recaptured the city, Ukrainian officials have consistently maintained that their forces continue to hold key strategic positions.

"I wish you good health. Today I'm in the Kupiansk sector with our warriors who are getting the job done for Ukraine here. The Russians kept going on about Kupiansk - the reality speaks for itself," Zelensky declared in video footage shared on the social media platform X.

The Ukrainian President, clearly visible in a bulletproof vest, praised Ukrainian military personnel for their valiant efforts against Russian forces. "I thank each of the units, everyone who is fighting here, everyone who is destroying the occupier. Today, achieving results on the frontline is crucial so that Ukraine can achieve results in diplomacy," he stated.

Zelensky emphasized that maintaining control of key territories significantly strengthens Ukraine's position in international negotiations. "This is exactly how it works: all our strong positions within the country translate into strong positions in the negotiations to end the war," he explained.

During the recording of his video message, an explosion could be heard in the background, highlighting the ongoing danger in the area.

The timing of Zelensky's visit is particularly significant. On November 20, Russia's Chief of the General Staff, Valery Gerasimov, had announced that Russian forces had completely captured Kupiansk. Russian President Vladimir Putin subsequently claimed, "Russia managed to block about 15 Ukrainian Armed Forces battalions in the Kupiansk area," and even invited journalists to witness the supposedly surrounded Ukrainian forces.

Countering these claims, Ihor Obolenskyi, commander of the 2nd Khartia Corps of the National Guard of Ukraine, informed Ukrainska Pravda, "Today we can say that the Russians in the city have been completely cut off and no more than 200 Russian soldiers remain in the city."

Zelensky took the opportunity to honor Ukrainian soldiers during his visit, declaring, "Thank you to each and every warrior! I'm proud of you! And I thank all of our Land Forces — today is exclusively your day. Thank you, guys. Glory to Ukraine!"