No Ukrainian units surrounded in Avdiivka – Land Forces commander
Ukrainian forces are using all available means to deter Russian troops in Avdiivka, where fierce fighting continues.
Logistics are maintained in the city, and there are no blocked Ukrainian units, says the Land Forces commander Oleksandr Tarnavskyi.
Avdiivka remains the toughest area of fighting along the entire length of the Russian-Ukrainian frontline.
"The enemy conducts massive bombing attacks day and night, and does not stop attacking from several directions simultaneously," Tarnavskyi said.
In an attempt to gain an advantage on the battlefield, Russian forces "used insidious tactics near Avdiivka Coke Plant."
Enemy forces set fire to a tank with naphthalene residues, which led to a fire in the bitumen resin storage warehouse.
Russian troops are storming the city from several directions simultaneously. The planned reinforcement of the Ukrainian forces is underway.
Photo: deepstatemap.live
Ammunition is being supplied to Avdiivka in increased volumes. Stable command of the troops is ensured.
Ukrainian troops withdrew from their positions on the southern outskirts of Avdiivka with minor losses.
If necessary, a maneuver will be conducted in other areas to move to new prepared positions.
Avdiivka is called the "gateway to Donetsk" and Russian troops have been trying to capture the city since the fall of 2023. According to the Ukrainian military, enemy forces have lost thousands of soldiers in the battle for Avdiivka.
On February 15, the press service of the third assault brigade officially confirmed that they had been redeployed to the Avdiivka area to strengthen the Ukrainian defense.
Russian forces have engaged the forces of two regular armies, and the ratio at the brigade level is 7 to 1. Enemy troops are increasing the use of guided aerial bombs and phosphorus bombs.
Russian forces are trying to cut the supply line, they are outnumbered because the Russian command has virtually unlimited human resources and equipment.
On February 16, Ukrainian troops decided to withdraw from the Zenit fortification in Avdiivka.
