**Russian Troops Forced to Retake Positions**
Ukrainian forces have reportedly forced Russian troops to retreat from positions in the Kupiansk sector. Ukrainian soldiers used intensive assaults to drive Russian forces back.
According to intelligence reports, Russian commanders are now ordering their soldiers to retake these positions. If they refuse, the soldiers will face execution.
**Russia‘s Struggles**
Russian forces have been trying to establish a foothold along the eastern bank of the Oskil River for months. They aim to outflank Ukrainian defenses and attack Kupiansk from behind.
President Volodymyr Zelensky has appointed a new commander, Major General Mykhailo Drapatyi, to lead the Khortytsia group in countering Russian advances.
Western officials have noted poor morale among Russian troops. Moscow‘s “human wave” tactics involve overwhelming Ukrainian defenders with sheer numbers, despite heavy losses.
Reports of Russian commanders executing their soldiers have surfaced during some of the heaviest battles of the war.
**Other Developments**
Russia launched 65 Shahed-type attack drones against Ukraine overnight, but most were shot down or failed to cause damage.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said that Ukraine should be helped to rebuild before receiving further aid. US President Donald Trump reportedly stressed progress on Russia-Ukraine relations.
There is no evidence of North Korean troops engaging in battle with Russian forces since mid-January. South Korea’s National Intelligence Service has reported heavy losses among Russian forces, which may have led to the withdrawal of North Korean troops.
Ukraine has suffered 1,270 casualties over the past day, according to Russia’s Ministry of Defense.
Russia’s proposed changes to military medical examination rules would simplify the conscription of individuals with certain health issues.
**International Support**
The US and UK are maintaining support for Ukraine. The US will continue to provide arms aid despite initial plans to halt funding.
Ukraine’s Armed Forces are transitioning to a new organizational structure to modernize the army.