Ukraine Withdraws Troops from Besieged Town of Avdiivka
17 February 2024
Ukraine announced today that its troops have completed a strategic withdrawal from Avdiivka, a key eastern town that had been under siege by Russian forces for several months. President Volodymyr Zelensky explained that the decision was made to save the lives of their soldiers, marking a significant development in the ongoing conflict.
Western Weapon Supplies Fail as Russian Forces Seize Avdiivka
Russia’s defense ministry proclaimed their full control over Avdiivka, emphasizing the capture as a crucial victory. President Vladimir Putin expressed his satisfaction with the occupation. The fall of Avdiivka represents a major triumph for Russia after months of intense fighting, and President Zelensky attribute the setback to faltering weapon supplies from Western countries.
Avdiivka Reduced to Ruins, Population Displaced
Previously a thriving town with a population of over 30,000, Avdiivka has been ravaged by the conflict. Virtually all its residents have fled, leaving behind a city almost completely demolished. The ruins serve as a grim testament to the relentless violence experienced by the region.
US Political Stalemate Hinders Ammunition Supply to Ukraine
Ukraine’s critical shortage of ammunition can largely be traced back to the political disagreements in the United States. President Joe Biden blamed the withdrawal of troops from Avdiivka on congressional inaction over a vital foreign aid package, including crucial funding for Ukraine. As a result, Ukrainian troops have been forced to ration their supplies.
Western Nations Reaffirm Support for Ukraine
President Biden reiterated America’s unwavering support for Ukraine during a call with President Zelensky, highlighting the commitment to aiding Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression. Additionally, Ukraine’s President appealed to the Western world during the Munich security conference, proclaiming the urgent need for collective resistance against the perceived threat from President Putin.
President Zelensky Warns of the Russian Menace
President Zelensky urged Western countries to unite against President Putin, referring to him as a “monster.” He cautioned that allowing President Putin’s hostile acts to go unchecked would result in catastrophic consequences for numerous countries, as he asserted that Putin’s plans extend well beyond Ukraine’s borders.
A New Era of Destruction in Ukraine
President Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022. President Zelensky implored the world to acknowledge the continuous conflict and to reflect on the reasons for President Putin’s ability to perpetuate the war.
Ongoing Battles Leave Eastern Ukraine in Shambles
Avdiivka, a town that had been caught in fierce fighting for months, first fell under Russian-backed forces in 2014 during the upheaval in the eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk. The recent seizure of Bakhmut in May 2023, in addition to the fall of Avdiivka, marks a significant shift in the constantly evolving front line.
Withdrawal to Save Lives, Maintain Stability
General Oleksandr Syrskyi, the newly appointed head of the Ukrainian armed forces, explained that the withdrawal from Avdiivka was carried out to prevent being encircled and to prioritize the lives and well-being of the armed forces. He commended the soldiers for their valiant efforts and their significant impact on Russian military units.
Despite their withdrawal, Ukrainian troops remain vigilant in stabilizing the situation and maintaining their positions, according to General Syrskyi. His Deputy, General Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, substantiated the decision, emphasizing the enormous challenges faced by Ukrainian forces.
Western Support Crucial in the Face of Russian Aggression
Admiral John Kirby, the spokesman for the US National Security Council, acknowledged the critical shortage of artillery ammunition for Ukrainian forces. He attributed this shortage to the attack waves initiated by Russian conscript forces and the delay in the passing of the supplemental bill in the US Congress.
NATO Secretary General, Jens Stoltenberg, further warned that the absence of approved military assistance for Ukraine in the United States was already having tangible effects on the battlefield, in a plea to prioritize continued support.
Sources: BBC News
