Fighters from the 'Khartiya' unit have raised Ukraine's national flag over the city hall of Kupiansk. The operation to liberate and clear the city of Russian occupiers continues. This act holds symbolic significance, especially in light of recent statements by the Russian General Staff, which claimed full control over the city.
For the Russian leadership and President Putin, the capture of Kupiansk would have been more than the control of another city in Kharkiv region. It was to signify Russia's ability to seize territories beyond the already "annexed" regions and to undertake preparations for new annexations using sham referendums. In 2022, after occupation, Kupiansk was declared a temporary regional center, serving as a base for a planned pseudo-referendum on "independence" and joining Russia.
These aggressive plans were thwarted by the actions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Evidence shows that in 2022-2023, Russian attempts to launch a new offensive and establish an occupation administration in Kupiansk were unsuccessful.
Putin's war logic relies not only on military strikes or ignoring international law. Annexing new regions, organizing sham referendums, and claiming legitimacy by expansion are central strategies of his regime, justifying totalitarianism and aggression even at the cost of ordinary Russians’ well-being.
The defense of Kupiansk demonstrates the commitment of Ukrainian forces, impacting Moscow's future plans. The raising of Ukraine's flag over the city challenges Russian reports of victory, reflecting the reality on the ground.
