Ukraine shifts tactics toward missile launchers and reports local gains

Ukrainian forces are implementing new tactical shifts on the battlefield. In the Kupiansk region, Ukrainian units, including elements of the 23rd Assault Regiment, have reportedly regained control of two forest complexes and the northern part of Zapadne, covering an area of approximately 7.5 square kilometers. Analysts note this is a tactical success intended to relieve pressure on the western part of Kupiansk, though the city remains largely a gray zone.

Simultaneously, the Ukrainian military has shifted its strategy toward targeting ballistic missile launchers located within Russian territory. This shift aims to mitigate the impact of Russian missile strikes on central Ukraine and Kyiv, particularly as shortages of interceptor missiles for systems like the Patriot have become a challenge. High-priority targets include Iskander-M launchers and North Korean KN-23 systems located in the Kursk and Bryansk regions. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has indicated that these specialized operations are beginning to show results in preventing large-scale missile attacks.