Russian Forces Close in on Avdiivka Coke Plant, Ukrainian Troops Prepare for Withdrawal
The battle for Avdiivka, a city in eastern Ukraine, has reached a critical point as Russian forces close in on the Avdiivka coke and chemical plant. The plant, once an economic pillar in the region, is likely to be the last stronghold for Ukrainian troops in the embattled city. Ukrainian soldiers believe that surrendering the city is inevitable, and some accuse their new commander in chief, Col. Gen. Oleksandr Syrsky, of waiting too long to withdraw from previous sieges.
Avdiivka holds strategic value for Russia as it is located just 15 miles outside the occupied regional capital of Donetsk. Pushing Ukrainians back from Donetsk city could boost the morale of Russian forces and mark a significant victory for Moscow. The city’s logistics, including roads and interchanges, are crucial for both sides in the conflict.
The Avdiivka coke and chemical plant has become a defensive base for Ukrainian troops due to its underground hideouts and sturdy concrete foundation. Despite being mostly ruined after years of war, the plant still provides a favorable position for the Ukrainians. However, they face challenges such as ammunition shortages and constant artillery fire from Russian forces.
Both sides are utilizing drones in the battle. Ukrainian forces use first-person view (FPV) drones rigged with explosives to target enemy infantry. The rise in cheap self-destructing drones has made any activity perilous, as both sides fear being targeted by the enemy. The Ukrainians have shifted their strategy to use FPV drones against even small groups of enemy infantry, while saving artillery for other targets.
The Russians have been slowly advancing on Avdiivka from the north, putting pressure on Ukrainian forces and forcing them to retreat. Ukrainian troops are employing an “active defense” strategy, inflicting damage on the invaders while holding Avdiivka. They believe that they are killing more enemy soldiers than they are losing and destroying Russian reserves.
Despite their efforts, the Ukrainian defense in Avdiivka continues to deteriorate. The Russians have reached parts of the coke plant and have gained control of the road used by Ukrainian forces to access the plant. The situation is dire, and a full withdrawal from Avdiivka seems likely.
The battle for Avdiivka is a critical test for Ukraine’s new commander in chief, and the outcome will have significant implications for the ongoing conflict in the region. As Russian forces close in on the coke plant, Ukrainian troops prepare for withdrawal, marking a potential turning point in the war.
