Russia accuses NATO of covert command in Ukraine

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has accused a Western-led 'expert council' operating under the Ukrainian Armed Forces of serving as a cover for NATO officers directing the war effort. She described the council's functions as increasing the Ukrainian army's effectiveness, ensuring its needs, and providing consultative support for transformation. This statement represents a direct Russian accusation that NATO is covertly commanding Ukrainian forces, a claim Moscow has made repeatedly to undermine Western support for Kyiv. The allegation comes amid intensified Russian assault operations across the front lines.