The Ukrainian army said its outnumbered forces withdrew from part of the eastern city of Avdiivka.
The decision comes as fighting escalates in the region, but Ukraine insists that withdrawing from the southeastern part of the city does not provide any strategic advantage to Russia.
Speaking on Telegram, the commander of Ukraine's southeastern sector, Oleksandr Tarnavsky, said the units had been removed with minor losses.
“In a difficult battlefield situation, when only rubble and a pile of broken bricks remain of the fortification, our priority is to save the lives of the soldiers,” he said.
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One of Ukraine's most prominent combat units, the 3rd Assault Brigade, was recently sent to Avdiivka to reinforce forces there.
The general described the situation in the city as “hell” and “threatening and unstable,” but he carried out a raid against Russian forces in parts of the city and inflicted heavy losses on them.
Avdiivka. Photo: Reuters
Why is the city important?
Russia is trying to encircle and seize Avdiivka nearly two years after its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, and Kiev's foothold in the city appears increasingly fragile, with its supply lines threatened.
Russian forces have been trying to advance towards the town since October, besieging it on three sides, leaving limited resupply routes for the Ukrainian forces holed up there.
Nearly two years after its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, seizing the eastern city is seen as central to Moscow's goal of securing full control over the two provinces that make up the industrial Donbass region.
It would also give Vladimir Putin a way to justify war as he does He is seeking re-election next month.
Photo: Reuters
Photo: Reuters
Zelensky calls for Western support
Comes as Volodymyr Zelensky He made a trip to Western Europe today in an attempt to pressure the Allies to continue providing military support.
The Ukrainian president signed a bilateral security agreement with Germany, and is scheduled to sign another with France later today.
Speaking in Berlin, Zelensky said his forces were “heroically defending strategic points and logistical routes.”
“Regarding Avdiivka, the situation there has been going on for several days,” he said.
President Zelensky in Berlin. Photo: Ukrainian Presidential Press Service – Reuters
“We remember what Russia is doing to our cities and villages. They will not stop until they completely destroy everything that lives there.”
He added: “I know in detail what is happening. I am in contact with our military leadership. I will not talk about the new military methods they are using.”
“Their mission is to do everything to protect our people above all else.”
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Earlier this week, the US Senate approved a $95 billion foreign aid package, including $60 billion to support Ukraine.
White House spokesman John Kirby said at the time that Avdiivka was at risk of falling into Russian hands due to a lack of artillery ammunition.
