Ukraine withdraws from key stronghold Avdiivka after 4-month defense against Russian assault

Russia has declared full control over Avdiivka, a city in eastern Ukraine, following months of intense combat, marking a potential morale boost for Moscow on the eve of the second anniversary of its invasion of Ukraine.

The announcement by the Russian Defense Ministry coincided with Ukraine’s decision to withdraw its troops from Avdiivka, where outnumbered defenders valiantly resisted a Russian assault for four months.

According to statements from Russian officials, Russian forces, under the command of Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, have cleared final pockets of resistance at the Avdiivka Coke and Chemical Plant, with videos on social media showing soldiers raising the Russian flag over the facility. President Vladimir Putin personally congratulated the troops on this “important victory,” as reported by state news agency Tass, underscoring the significance of Avdiivka’s capture.

The timing of this development, just days ahead of the invasion’s anniversary and amid preparations for Russia’s presidential election, suggests a strategic move by the Kremlin to bolster domestic support. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, speaking at the Munich Security Conference, cautioned allies about the detrimental impact of an “artificial deficit” of arms for Ukraine, highlighting the challenges faced by the country in maintaining its defensive posture.

President Biden, while expressing confidence in securing additional funding for Ukraine, acknowledged the urgency of the situation, particularly as Ukrainian forces face dwindling ammunition supplies. Political disagreements among American lawmakers have stalled approximately $60 billion in support for Ukraine, with White House National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson attributing the withdrawal from Avdiivka to “Congressional inaction.”

Despite the setback in Avdiivka, Ukrainian forces remain resolute in their commitment to defend against Russian aggression. Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi affirmed the dignity and valor of Ukrainian soldiers, emphasizing their efforts to inflict significant losses on the enemy. As Ukraine’s new army chief, Syrskyi faces the daunting task of stabilizing the situation and maintaining defensive positions in the wake of the withdrawal.

While the capture of Avdiivka may serve as a symbolic victory for Russia, experts caution that it is unlikely to bring significant operational changes to the front line. The Institute for the Study of War suggests that the Kremlin’s gains in Avdiivka may yield only immediate informational and political advantages, rather than tangible strategic advancements. As the conflict in eastern Ukraine persists, the fate of Avdiivka underscores the ongoing struggle for control and the enduring resilience of both Ukrainian and Russian forces on the battlefield.