The Russian Defense Ministry reported an advance of 8.6 kilometers on the 1,000-kilometer front line.
Russia announced on Sunday that it had gained full control of the Ukrainian city of Avdiivka, marking its largest territorial acquisition in nine months. Reuters reported.
The capture follows Ukraine's withdrawal, although Russian officials noted that some Ukrainian troops remain entrenched in a massive Soviet-era coke plant after a fierce battle.
This victory, the largest since the capture of Bakhmut in May 2023, coincides almost precisely with the second anniversary of President Vladimir Putin's order for a full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Russia's Defense Ministry reported an advance of 8.6 kilometers (5.3 mi) on the 1,000-kilometer front line, with Avdiivka almost depopulated and in ruins after the intense urban battle.
While Ukraine explained its withdrawal as a strategic measure to avoid a complete encirclement after months of intense fighting, Putin hailed the fall of Avdiivka as a crucial triumph and praised Russian troops.
The importance of capturing Avdiivka extends beyond territorial gains and could provide a morale boost to Putin ahead of his upcoming re-election bid. The move also aligns with Moscow's broader goal of securing control over the Donbas industrial region.
Meanwhile, concerns about weapons shortages in Ukraine, exacerbated by the delay of US military aid due to congressional opposition, have posed challenges for Ukrainian forces facing Russian aggression.
President Joe Biden, recognizing the urgency, reiterated the United States' commitment to supporting Ukraine and urged Congress to quickly pass a military aid package.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, in a speech at a global security conference, called for international assistance to overcome the arms shortage.
The battle for Avdiivka underlines the need for modern air defense systems and long-range weapons, according to Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov.
While both sides remain silent about the victims, the fall of Avdiivka is a pivotal event with far-reaching implications for the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
