Russian hostilities decline in Avdiivka following takeover, says American think tank
"The rate of Russian aggressive actions in the Avdiivka area was expected to noticeably slow down once the Russians took over this town," says the Washington-based think tank, whilst analysing the situation at the front line.
Scenario after Avdiivka's capture by the Russians
Ukrainian military spokesman Dmytro Lychovij, on February 19th, noted that the frequency of Russian attacks had significantly dropped, and Russian forces were regrouping and "clearing the area" of remaining enemy troops. The intensity of artillery barrages and airstrikes also greatly fell.
The Ukrainian military revealed that its troops have retreated from Avdiivka to new defence lines. These lines were fortified and ready at "multiple levels".
"Russian forces will likely take a break in operations before restarting significant offensive operations towards Avdiivka or, if they wish to bypass a cessation of hostilities in the Avdiivka area, it will be essential to deploy additional forces from other front lines."
- the ISW remarks.
Analysts conjecture that Russians have reserves in other sectors that could be called upon for reinforcement, but hitherto, there haven't been any indications of movement of these forces.
Ukrainian military representatives believe Russian forces stationed in Avdiivka could soon be reassigned to other fronts. (PAP)
