Reports indicate that offensive actions by Russian forces in the vicinity of Avdiivka have notably subsided following their recent takeover, with a comprehensive map illustrating the ongoing situation in Ukraine’s Donetsk oblast.
After enduring months of intense conflict resulting in significant Russian casualties, Ukraine officially declared its withdrawal from Avdiivka. This retreat was heralded by Russian media as their most significant advancement since seizing Bakhmut in May 2023.
However, in the aftermath of this development, Russian assaults have markedly decreased as forces under Vladimir Putin’s command regroup and engage in clearance operations within the town. Dmytro Lykhoviy, spokesperson for Ukraine’s Tavriisk Group of Forces, affirmed a noticeable reduction in Russian artillery bombardment and aerial activities in the region.
Latest Developments in Ukraine Conflict: Map Highlights Recent Russian Progress (Credits: Newsweek)
Ukrainian authorities disclosed that their military units have repositioned to a freshly fortified defensive line as part of their strategic response.
The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) stated on Monday that there is a likelihood of a pause in Russian offensive maneuvers in the Avdiivka region, potentially accompanied by the redeployment of reinforcements from other areas of the front to forestall any culmination of operations near Avdiivka.
Although Moscow possesses reserves capable of bolstering alternate sectors, the ISW has not observed any immediate indications of Russian forces being redirected towards Avdiivka.
Recent analyses from the think tank highlight Russian advancements in various sectors surrounding Avdiivka as of February 17, including northern, western, and southeastern areas, with reports of the occupation of the Avdiivka Coke Plant. Consequently, the Ukrainian defensive perimeter has shifted westward, with Avdiivka, once home to 30,000 residents before the war, now situated within Russian-controlled territory.
Predictions from military spokespersons suggest that the Russian command may soon redistribute forces from the Avdiivka region to other frontline zones. Captain Ilya Yevlash, spokesperson for Ukraine’s Khortytsia Group of Forces, estimated that such reallocations might require approximately a week to execute.
The capture of Avdiivka exacted a heavy toll in terms of both human lives and military equipment, with tens of thousands of soldiers reported to have perished, and substantial losses incurred by Ukraine.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, addressing the nation on Monday evening, underscored the exploitative tactics employed by Russian forces amid delays in additional military support from Western allies. Zelensky’s remarks came in light of an unresolved U.S. aid package currently mired in congressional deadlock.
Following an inspection of the northeastern frontline in Kupiansk, Zelensky emphasized the grave challenges faced by Ukrainian troops in several areas where Russian forces have amassed significant reserves.
