Russia escalating pressure on Avdiivka front: Ukrainian forces holding defense

Fighters from the 3rd Separate Storm Brigade are holding defensive positions in the eastern city of Avdiivka. 

The Russian forces have superior resources, which they are deploying in battle, Rubryka reports, citing the brigade press officer, Oleksandr Borodin.

Talking at the national telethon, Borodin stated that the situation in Avdiivka is critical, with the enemy increasing pressure. According to him, the Russians have deployed forces from two regular armies, with a brigade ratio of 7 to 1. The Russian occupiers are increasing the use of guided aerial bombs and phosphorus bombs.

"We are holding defensive positions. The task is difficult due to the (force) ratio and the endless resources of the enemy," said the brigade spokesperson. "The enemy has constant support, instead of a broken battalion, more resources and no horizon that something might run out for them, both in terms of people and resources." 

Borodin also explained why the situation in Avdiivka is more difficult than in Bakhmut during critical moments.

"The enemy has a huge number of drone equipment. Wagnerites preserved the equipment and worked mostly with people in [Bakhmut], while here, it's tank attacks along with infantry. A large number of APCs, IFVs, aircraft, FPV drones. There was no such thing in Bakhmut when Wagnerites were in battle," he added.

Battles on the Avdiivka front

Avdiivka is called the "gateway to Donetsk," and Russian occupiers have been trying to capture the city since the fall of 2023. According to the Ukrainian military, Russians have lost tens of thousands of soldiers in battles for Avdiivka.

The occupiers managed to enter Avdiivka. Another defense outpost remains in the local coke plant. The Ukrainian Armed Forces stressed that the situation in Avdiivka is approaching critical. Yesterday, February 15, the press service of the 3rd Storm Brigade officially confirmed that they had been redeployed to the Avdiivka area to strengthen the Ukrainian defense.

Russian forces are trying to cut off supply lines; they outnumber Ukrainians in forces because the Russian command has practically unlimited human resources and equipment.

Russian occupiers have concentrated over 40,000 troops on the Avdiivka front and lost 300-400 occupants daily.

As of January 30, fewer than 1,000 civilians are still in Avdiivka. The evacuation from the city continues.

Russian occupation forces are deploying armored groups for assaults on Avdiivka and Novomykhailivka, sending them to support infantry groups. Ukrainian troops are holding defense steadfastly, destroying the enemy and capturing prisoners.