Russian Forces Seize Control of Ukrainian City of Avdiivka

Russian Troops Working to Clear Remaining Resistance at Avdiivka Coke and Chemical Plant

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — According to a statement by the Russian Defense Ministry on Saturday, Russian forces have taken complete control of the city of Avdiivka in Ukraine. Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu confirmed that Russian forces were now focusing on clearing the final pockets of resistance at the Avdiivka Coke and Chemical Plant. Social media videos emerged on Saturday, showing soldiers raising the Russian flag over one of the plant’s buildings.

The timing of this takeover holds significance for Russia. With the second anniversary of Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24 and the upcoming March presidential election in Russia, Russia seeks to enhance morale and assert its dominance in the region.

Military Withdrawal and the Appointment of Ukraine’s New Army Chief

Ukraine’s military chief, Col. Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, announced on Facebook that the decision to withdraw troops from Avdiivka was made to prevent encirclement and preserve the lives and health of the servicemen. He further stated that the troops were moving to more favorable lines. Syrskyi commended the soldiers for their dignified military duty, highlighting their efforts in destroying the best Russian military units and causing significant losses to the enemy in terms of manpower and equipment. The statement also reassured that measures were being taken to stabilize the situation and maintain Ukraine’s positions.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s recent trip to Western Europe, intended to seek continued military support from Ukraine’s Western allies, coincided with these developments. The visit aimed to bolster support ahead of the upcoming presidential election in Ukraine.

The Situation in Avdiivka and the Russian Assault

Avdiivka, heavily fortified with concrete fortifications and a web of tunnels, is located in the northern suburbs of Donetsk. Capturing Avdiivka holds both strategic and symbolic significance for Russia as it could provide a springboard for further advances within the region. The assault on Avdiivka witnessed relentless shelling, aerial bombings, and ground assaults by Russia’s military.

Russian forces, consisting of approximately 15,000 soldiers, have been battling the outnumbered Ukrainian troops. Ukrainian commander, Rodion Kudriashov, of the 3rd Assault Brigade described the situation as critical, with the enemy attempting to penetrate and bypass Ukrainian defense positions. The ongoing attacks led to the release of a video by the 3rd Brigade, showing the Avdiivka Coke Plant engulfed in dense black smoke, while the fuel oil reservoirs burned. Reports also suggested the extensive use of plane-launched glide bombs by the Kremlin’s forces to weaken the Ukrainian defenses.

In the face of these developments, White House national security spokesman, John Kirby, noted that Ukrainian defenses were being overwhelmed due to a shortage of artillery ammunition. The United States, while being Ukraine’s largest supporter, currently faces political disagreements among American lawmakers, causing delays in providing the needed support.

Significance of Avdiivka’s Capture and the Analysis by a Washington Think Tank

While the potential capture of Avdiivka would bring immediate informational and political victories to the Kremlin, the Institute for the Study of War emphasizes that operationally, it would not result in significant changes to the 930-mile front line that has remained static in recent months. The capture of Avdiivka would only set the conditions for further limited tactical gains by Russia.

Currently, the population of Avdiivka has dramatically dwindled from approximately 31,000 to fewer than 1,000 people, with the city bearing the scars of relentless bombings. An aerial footage obtained by The Associated Press in December uncovered the devastating aftermath of the ongoing conflict, as approximately 150 bodies, most wearing Russian uniforms, were found scattered along tree lines.

Takeaway

As Russian forces gain control of Avdiivka, Ukraine faces a significant setback in defending its territory. The situation reflects Russia’s determination to consolidate power and advance its agenda in the Eastern Ukraine region. While the Ukrainian military assures that necessary measures are being taken to stabilize the situation, their struggle is evident in the face of Russian aggression. This ongoing battle for territorial control poses questions about the international community’s response and the future of the region.

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