Russian forces intensify attacks on Avdiivka, Donetsk: City resists amid heightened tensions

"The enemy is deploying substantial forces against Avdiivka. This has been an ongoing situation since October 10 (last year). The situation is not critical," commented Vitaliy Barabash during his appearance on Ukrainian television.

From Barabash's narration, it appears that the Russians are attempting to penetrate the old section of the city, deploying sabotage groups there. However, the Ukrainian forces are effectively countering these attempts. The opposition also directs its actions towards the garden complex, commonly known as the Orchard Society, which is situated close to the coking and chemical plants, KoksoChim.

Barabash affirmed that the Russians are attempting to isolate KoksoChim and that battles and enemy assault actions are consistently happening across the defensive line around the city. "The situation is very complex and tense, but it's incorrect to say that Avdiivka is defeated and has given up. Avdiivka is still standing strong," ensured the head of the military administration.

He also stated that the Ukrainian forces still maintain control over the main route, enabling contact with the territories under Kyiv's control. "They have come within a mile of it. The situation is tough, but we will continue to carry out our duties as long as we can," he declared.

Despite calls for evacuation, 941 civilians continue to reside in the city. "They are likely to stay here, despite living in basements and damaged houses, with no electricity, heating, gas, or water. We deliver them humanitarian aid, regardless of the immense risk," explained the head of the military authorities in Avdiivka.

Source: PAP