Ukraine Withdraws from Avdiivka: A Strategic Stronghold in Donetsk
Why Avdiivka is important
Ukraine has announced its withdrawal from Avdiivka, a strategic stronghold in Donetsk that has been repeatedly attacked by Russia and its proxies in the past decade. Avdiivka holds significant value and serves as a vital hub in the Donetsk region of Ukraine, which Russia illegally annexed in 2022. It is located just 15 miles away from the Russian-occupied regional capital of Donetsk, and its capture would push the front line of the war further from the city, making it harder for Ukraine to reclaim the regional capital in the future.
Russian Forces’ Efforts to Seize Avdiivka
Russian forces have been making a concerted effort to seize Avdiivka since October. They have frequently targeted a coke and chemical plant in the city, dropping around 20 bombs per day. Russian forces advanced into the city this month and have now claimed “complete” control of Avdiivka. The withdrawal of Ukraine’s troops marks a significant defeat, especially considering the country’s struggle with shortages of weapons, ammunition, and troops.
Avdiivka’s Significance for Moscow
Avdiivka holds strategic and logistical importance for Moscow. Its capture would not only push the front line further from Donetsk city but also provide a morale boost to Russian forces ahead of the second anniversary of the war. Additionally, it reinforces concerns about Ukraine’s dwindling military supplies and personnel. The city’s destruction and the displacement of most of its population are clear indicators of the intensity of the conflict in the region.
Importance of Air Defenses and Temporary Air Superiority
An Institute for the Study of War (ISW) report highlights the importance of air defenses and temporary air superiority in Russia’s advance into Avdiivka. Russian forces leveraged temporary localized air superiority to facilitate the capture of much of the city. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov emphasized the need for sophisticated air defense systems to prevent Russian forces from using guided bombs effectively.
Reactions and Messages from Ukraine, Russia, and the United States
Following the withdrawal, Ukrainian military officials and soldiers claimed to have inflicted significant losses on Russian forces during the operation. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that the decision to withdraw from Avdiivka was well-balanced and helped save Ukrainian troops’ lives. Russia’s Defense Ministry celebrated the withdrawal as a symbolic victory and President Vladimir Putin plans to honor members of the Russian Air Force who took part in the operation. The United States, in a statement following a call between President Biden and President Zelensky, emphasized the need for urgent congressional action on the national security supplemental funding bill to resupply Ukrainian forces.
As Ukraine grapples with this significant defeat, it becomes crucial for its allies to support and provide the necessary ammunition and weapons. The conflict in Avdiivka acts as a stark reminder that the situation demands a comprehensive and immediate response to prevent further losses and facilitate a peaceful resolution.
