After a four-month siege of Avdiivka, Russia's seizure of power comes just days before the second anniversary of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Russian forces have declared full control over the Ukrainian town of Avdiivka, marking substantial progress since the capture of Bakhmut last May.
The Russian Defense Ministry announced the success of the operation and President Vladimir Putin congratulated the troops, calling it a “success” and an “important victory.”
This power grab comes just days before the second anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu informed the Kremlin that forces were working to clear the last pockets of resistance at the Avdiivka coke and chemical plant. Videos on social media showed soldiers raising the Russian flag over one of the plant's buildings, emphasizing Moscow's strategic advance in the region.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, speaking at the Munich Security Conference, highlighted the challenges facing Ukrainian forces and attributed the withdrawal of outnumbered troops from Avdiivka to a lack of weapons. Zelenskyy implored the West to increase the provision of military aid and expressed hope that the US Congress would make a “wise decision” to support Ukraine.
The White House, however, attributed the withdrawal to “declining supplies as a result of congressional inaction,” which led to gains for Russia. President Joe Biden, in a phone call with Zelenskyy, reiterated the United States' commitment to supporting Ukraine, while acknowledging the challenges facing Ukrainian forces.
Avdiivka, once a bustling town with around 30,000 inhabitants, is now largely destroyed, with the population reduced to just over 1,000. The city's strategic importance lies in its location north of Donetsk, and its capture could pave the way for Russia to secure control over the two provinces that make up the Donbas industrial region.
Heavy fighting over Avdiivka has seen Russian forces surround the city on three sides since October, limiting resupply routes for Ukrainian troops. Rodion Kudriashov, deputy commander of the Third Assault Brigade, described the situation on the ground, detailing the incessant shelling, bombing and assaults by Russian fighter jets.
President Putin paid tribute to the fallen soldiers in a telegram saying: “Eternal glory to the heroes who fell while fulfilling the tasks of the special military operation!”
