Rat u Ukrajini: Zelenski tvrdi da se "borbe nastavljaju" za ukrajinski grad Kostyantynivka

On July 5, 2026, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated during his daily address that fighting continued in the strategically significant city of Kostyantynivka, located in the Donetsk region. This statement came after the Russian government had previously announced that it had captured the city. According to Zelensky, despite Moscow’s claims, the situation on the ground suggested otherwise, noting that Russian President Vladimir Putin would likely avoid appearing in the city due to ongoing hostilities. Kostyantynivka, situated along a critical route leading to key areas in the Donetsk region, had approximately 78,000 residents prior to the full-scale Russian invasion in 2022. The Ukrainian military confirmed that they continue to defend the city against Russian advances.

The dispute over Kostyantynivka highlights the broader struggle for control in eastern Ukraine, where both sides have made conflicting claims about territorial gains. While Moscow asserted that it had secured the city, Kyiv categorically denied these assertions, labeling them as false. This contradiction underscores the complex nature of the conflict, where battlefield reports often differ between opposing forces. The city’s strategic importance lies in its location, serving as a potential gateway to other crucial locations within the Donetsk region. As such, controlling Kostyantynivka could provide logistical advantages and influence the flow of resources and reinforcements in the area.

In addition to the situation in Kostyantynivka, Zelensky raised concerns about potential large-scale Russian attacks approaching the upcoming NATO summit in Turkey. He mentioned that intelligence reports indicated preparations for a new major offensive by Russian forces. These warnings come amid heightened tensions following a previous incident when Zelensky had predicted an imminent attack on Kyiv, which was soon followed by a Russian strike resulting in 30 fatalities. The president emphasized the need to exert pressure on Russia to achieve peace, stating that Ukraine had presented its proposals for a resolution and anticipated that conditions for a dignified peace might emerge either through diplomatic efforts or further military actions.

The ongoing conflict has seen intensified Ukrainian strikes against Russian infrastructure, including oil and fuel depots, which have impacted daily life in Russia. Zelensky noted that these operations have yielded tangible results each day, contributing to the disruption of essential services and supply chains within Russia. Despite these challenges, the Ukrainian leadership remains focused on maintaining defensive positions while seeking international support for their cause.

Recent developments include reports of at least four casualties in Ukraine due to Russian drone and missile attacks on Sunday. These incidents reflect the persistent threat posed by Russian military operations and underscore the human toll of the prolonged conflict. With the war entering its fourth year and a half, the situation remains volatile, marked by continuous clashes and shifting dynamics on the battlefield. The international community continues to monitor the evolving scenario, with hopes for a resolution through diplomatic channels or a cessation of hostilities.