Story perspectives

Putin Praises Kostiantynivka Capture; Ukraine Says Advances Slow

7/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

President Vladimir Putin visited a post on July 3, praised Kostiantynivka’s capture and warned Russia must enlarge zones.
General Staff Chief Valery Gerasimov called Kostiantynivka a hub and said troops are closing on Lyman.
Northern troops commander Yevgeny Nikiforov said drone strikes on Russian oil facilities continue, causing shortages.
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Russian advances have slowed and Ukraine has recaptured territory, which President Vladimir Putin dismissed as an information campaign.

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Story summary

President Vladimir Putin visited a post on July 3, praised Kostiantynivka’s capture and warned Russia must enlarge zones.
General Staff Chief Valery Gerasimov called Kostiantynivka a hub and said troops are closing on Lyman.
Northern troops commander Yevgeny Nikiforov said drone strikes on Russian oil facilities continue, causing shortages.
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Russian advances have slowed and Ukraine has recaptured territory, which President Vladimir Putin dismissed as an information campaign.