Russian Forces Claim Capture of Ukraine's Kupiansk; Gerasimov Briefs Putin on Strategic Advances
In a significant development reported on November 21, 2025, General of the Army Valery Gerasimov, the Chief of Russia's General Staff, informed President Vladimir Putin that Russian forces had successfully taken control of the Ukrainian city of Kupiansk. The briefing took place during Putin's visit to the command post of the Russian forces' "West" grouping.
Key Briefing Details Emerge from Kremlin Statement
According to a statement from the Kremlin, President Putin met with Gerasimov and other high-ranking military officials, where he received comprehensive updates on the ongoing military situation. Discussions primarily focused on developments in the Kostyantynivka and Kramatorsk areas within Ukraine's Donetsk region, as well as the critical vicinity around Kupiansk in the Kharkiv region.
During the briefing, Gerasimov specifically highlighted the advances made by Russian units. "Units of the 'West' grouping have liberated the city of Kupiansk and are continuing to destroy Ukrainian armed forces units surrounded on the left bank of the Oskol River," Gerasimov reportedly told Putin, confirming the capture of the strategic city.
Further Territorial Claims in Pokrovsk and Vovchansk
Beyond Kupiansk, Gerasimov also provided updates on other fronts, indicating further territorial gains. He informed President Putin that Russian forces had established control over a substantial portion of Pokrovsk, claiming more than 70% of the city. Additionally, the chief of staff reported that over 80% of Vovchansk was now under Russian control. These claims underscore continued military operations across various contested areas in Ukraine.
