Story perspectives

Russia spreads AI-fabricated flag video amid Kostiantynivka siege

7/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Russia released an AI-altered video showing troops raising a flag in Lyman to exaggerate gains in Kostiantynivka.
Russian forces are fighting intensely in Kostiantynivka, which Ukrainian defenders still hold.
President Vladimir Putin called Kostiantynivka the key to liberating the Donetsk People’s Republic.
UK intelligence says Russian monthly casualties of 30,000-34,000 outpace recruitment of 27,000, prompting Ukrainian experts to warn the city may fall by summer’s end.

1 of 1

Story summary

Russia released an AI-altered video showing troops raising a flag in Lyman to exaggerate gains in Kostiantynivka.
Russian forces are fighting intensely in Kostiantynivka, which Ukrainian defenders still hold.
President Vladimir Putin called Kostiantynivka the key to liberating the Donetsk People’s Republic.
UK intelligence says Russian monthly casualties of 30,000-34,000 outpace recruitment of 27,000, prompting Ukrainian experts to warn the city may fall by summer’s end.