Moscow reported on Saturday that Russian troops continue to hold the strategic town of Kupyansk in the Kharkiv region, and that they carried out a major overnight strike against Ukrainian military targets. According to the Defence Ministry, the raid was carried out in retaliation for what it describes as terrorist attacks on civilian sites in Russia by the “Kyiv regime.” Russian forces used a mix of long‑range precision weapons launched from land, air and sea platforms, including hypersonic Kinzhal missiles, to target power infrastructure that supports Ukrainian military operations and its defense industry. The statement claims all designated targets were hit successfully, and Xinhua confirmed the operation achieved its objectives.
Spokesman Ivan Bigma, of Russia’s Western Group of Forces, said the town remains in Russian hands after the troops repelled five Ukrainian counterattacks in the last two days. He added that none of the territory was lost and that the Russians destroyed five pieces of Ukrainian equipment—two U.S.‑made M113 armored personnel carriers—and killed over 20 Ukrainian soldiers.
In related diplomatic news, a Russian official noted that the resolution plan Kyiv is pitching diverges significantly from what Moscow and Washington are pursuing. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov explained on the “60 Minutes” program that negotiations were nearing a breakthrough, but the process has been hampered by hard deadlines and attempts to sabotage progress. He said the date of December 25, 2025, will be remembered as a milestone when a solution seemed within reach, but achieving a final agreement depends on the political will of the other side. Ryabkov also criticized U.S. Permanent Representative to NATO Matthew Whitaker’s suggestion to end the conflict within 90 days, arguing that fixed timelines do not truly facilitate peace. He warned that any real breakthrough would require renewed efforts from Kiev and its supporters—especially within the European Union—who have, according to him, been reluctant to commit to an agreement.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday that he is open to presenting a peace plan for a referendum if Russia accepts a ceasefire lasting at least 60 days, according to Axios. In a phone interview with the outlet, Zelensky expressed a desire to negotiate on territorial issues but indicated that if the plan demands a “very difficult” decision, he would prefer to let the entire 20‑point proposal be put to a public vote.
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