Russia Seizes Control of Ukrainian City Avdiivka in Significant Military Advance

Russia has declared full control over the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka, marking its most significant territorial gain since capturing Bakhmut in May. The city, marred by a decade of conflict, had become a fierce battleground, leading to its near destruction. Ukrainian troops strategically retreated from Avdiivka to avoid encirclement, with the army chief, Oleksandr Syrskyi, emphasizing the decision aimed to preserve soldiers’ lives and stabilize the situation. However, Russia expanded its offensive by launching attacks west of Avdiivka, seeking further gains on the battlefield.

While Ukrainian forces reported repelling 14 attacks on the nearby village of Lastochkyne, the situation remains precarious. Some Ukrainian troops are reportedly holed up in a large coke plant, one of Europe’s largest, though the Russian defense ministry claimed full control over the facility. The capture of Avdiivka grants Russia complete dominance over the Donetsk area, a significant strategic development ahead of the second anniversary of its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

President Vladimir Putin congratulated Russian soldiers on this “important victory.” The conflict escalation prompts concerns as Ukraine contemplates a major mobilization, and President Zelenskiy appoints a new war commander. Meanwhile, on the southern front, Ukrainian forces successfully repelled a Russian offensive in the Zaporizhzhia area. Zelenskiy urged Western allies for assistance during the Munich security conference, emphasizing the need for support against the perceived threat posed by Russia, referring to it as “the monster.” The situation remains volatile as both sides assess the evolving dynamics of the conflict.