Russia is seeking to project battlefield success where none exists, according to Ukrainian officials, who denied Kremlin statements about an alleged encirclement of Ukrainian forces. They said Ukrainian troops continue to defend every metre of territory, and no encirclement has taken place. Moscow’s narrative is portrayed as a standard propaganda tactic aimed at misrepresenting the situation on the ground.
Messaging aimed at influencing US policy
Ukrainian officials argue that Vladimir Putin’s statements are intended to mislead President Donald Trump into believing Ukraine lacks the capability to resist Russia’s offensive. They say the Kremlin is trying to buy time and avoid tougher US sanctions by presenting itself as ready for negotiations. Kyiv maintains that Russia’s military gains are exaggerated and designed to pressure Western partners into scaling back support.
Ukraine urges greater international assistance
Despite Russia’s numerical advantage, Ukraine says its forces are successfully restraining the offensive while Russian propaganda invents additional victories. Officials reiterate that Ukraine requires increased military support to boost its defensive capabilities. They frame sustained Western backing as key to countering Russia’s larger military force.
Nuclear threats seen as intimidation
Putin’s references to advanced nuclear systems such as the Sarmat missile and Poseidon undersea drone are described by Kyiv as attempts to intimidate Europe. Ukrainian authorities say the Kremlin uses threats to undermine European solidarity with Ukraine. They argue that the appropriate response should be strengthened sanctions and continued military support for Ukraine’s defence.
No evidence of encirclement in frontline cities
Ukrainian forces report destroying Russian sabotage units in Pokrovsk and preventing any hold in the city. A Russian flag briefly raised there was swiftly removed. Claims of Ukrainian troops being surrounded in Kupiansk were dismissed by Ukraine’s Joint Forces grouping as baseless and not supported by operational data.
Defensive operations continue around Pokrovsk
Ukraine’s airborne units in the sector say Russia has deployed about 11,000 personnel with the stated aim of encircling the Pokrovsk agglomeration, but insist no such outcome is underway. Defensive operations continue, and Ukraine has reinforced its positions. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said additional units have been sent to protect Pokrovsk, currently a primary target of Russian forces.
