90% of Kupyansk destroyed by Russians, says local official

Andriy Besedin, described the situation in the community as “critical,” citing ongoing Russian strikes with KABs, artillery, multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS), and FPV drones guided via fiber optics.

“Unfortunately, yesterday [May 23] — another terrorist act: first a KAB strike, then an MLRS Uragan attack. Two utility workers were killed. These are tragic losses of our people, our colleagues who give their lives so that Kupyansk can survive,” Besedin said. He added that around 90% of the city has already been destroyed.

According to him, Russian forces are increasingly targeting the central areas of populated settlements, further endangering local civilians. Around 2,700 residents remain in the community.

Earlier incidents reflect the escalation: On May 16, an FPV drone strike killed a 55-year-old woman and injured four local utility workers. On May 10, three civilians were injured in similar attacks.

The Kupyansk direction has also seen reports of Russian use of toxic substances.

On March 31, Andriy Kovalenko, head of the Center for Countering Disinformation, said that Russian forces had intensified the use of chemical agents in the area.