Russia captures Ukrainian soldiers during withdrawal from Avdiivka
Kostiantyn Liberov/Libkos/Getty Images
Smoke rises from the Avdiivka Coke and Chemical Plant on February 15.
Russia’s Advance in Avdiivka
Russia captured Ukrainian soldiers during the withdrawal of Kyiv’s forces from the key town of Avdiivka, a significant event in the ongoing conflict between the two nations. Ukraine, in an attempt to safeguard its troops from the escalating fight, declared their withdrawal from the town, located to the northwest of Donetsk city.
Heavy Fighting
Ukraine’s decision to withdraw from Avdiivka comes after Moscow’s intensified attacks on the area in recent weeks. The Russians employed airstrikes, artillery bombardments, and ground assaults by armored vehicles and soldiers. The Ukrainian commander of southern forces, Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, stated, “In a situation where the enemy is advancing on the corpses of their own soldiers with a ten-to-one shell advantage, under constant bombardment, this is the only correct solution.”
Ifiete troops
Despite the withdrawal, the Ukrainian soldiers put up a valiant defense against the onslaught of Russian troops who had carried out numerous airstrikes and artillery attacks in the area. Russian forces, in their attempt to reclaim Avdiivka, relentlessly bombarded the city, leaving a devastating impact in their wake.
Last-Ditch Effort
Ukraine’s new military chief, Oleksandr Syrskyi, and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov visited the Avdiivka front lines just days before the withdrawal. Syrskyi had pledged to send reinforcements to prevent the enemy’s further advancement. However, Ukrainian troops described the battle conditions as “hellish,” with the enemy closing in from all sides.
An Ordered Retreat
Syrskyi made a statement on Friday, justifying the withdrawal as a necessary move to avoid encirclement and to protect the lives and well-being of the Ukrainian servicemen. He further emphasized their success in inflicting significant losses on the enemy.
Stabilizing the Situation
Ukraine is actively working to stabilize the situation and maintain their positions in the region. Syrskyi valued the lives of military personnel as of utmost priority.
The Importance of Avdiivka
Avdiivka, situated a few kilometers north of Donetsk airport, has been a critical area of conflict. Captured by Russian forces in 2015, the town has been a recurrent target. Moscow believed that reclaiming Avdiivka before the presidential election in Russia would hold considerable significance.
Current Status
The situation in Avdiivka continues to evolve, and updates on the events will be provided soon.
