Ukraine poised to withdraw from Avdiivka – report
Ukrainian forces have begun a partial withdrawal from Avdiivka, Donetsk Oblast, suggesting that a full retreat from the beleaguered city would come afterwards, The Washington Post reported on Feb. 15.
According to Ukrainian military sources cited by the journalists, a complete departure from the city is just a matter of time. Avdiivka coke chemical plant is likely to become the Ukrainian forces' last stronghold in the city.
Read also: Ukrainian defenders in besieged Avdiivka forced to use backup supply lines amid heavy fighting
An unnamed Ukrainian military service member notes that Russian troops are attempting to bypass and encircle the coke plant, meaning that Ukrainian forces "will be forced to retreat."
Read also: Ukrainian officer on battle for Avdiivka – interview
The situation in Avdiivka poses a critical test for Ukraine's new Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi. He will need to decide when it’s time to abandon the city.
Read also: Russia would target Selydove after Avdiivka — Ostrov editor-in-chief
The capture of Avdiivka would represent the most significant victory for Russia in recent months, as Ukraine struggles with ammunition and personnel shortages.
Earlier on Feb. 15, soldiers of the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade confirmed that they had been urgently relocated to the Avdiivka to reinforce Ukrainian troops there. Deputy brigade commander, Maksym Zhorin, explained that the fighting in Avdiivka is far more complex compared to the battle for Bakhmut in late 2022 and early 2023.
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