Ukrainian troops withdraw from battleground Avdiivka amid escalating Russian conflicts

"In view of the unfolding operational situation around Avdiivka, to prevent encirclement and safeguard soldiers' lives and health, I deemed it necessary to pull our units away from the city towards more advantageous defensive positions," stated General Syrski.

He added, "Our soldiers, bravely defending their nation, have given their all to challenge the top-notch Russian military units. They have inflicted sizeable damage on the enemy in terms of workforce and equipment."

"We are actively working to stabilize the situation and maintain our positions. The life and safety of our soldiers is paramount. We will reclaim Avdiivka" - this promise came from General Syrski.

On Friday, General Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, the commander of Ukrainian troops during the Avdiivka conflict, reported, "The enemy is demolishing the city completely."

Earlier on the same day, Tauryda group commander, General Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, reported that the Ukrainian army had retreated from some positions in Avdiivka "with minor losses", and a few Ukrainian soldiers had been captured.

"The decision to withdraw was taken with the primary aim of protecting our personnel and enhancing the operational situation," Tarnavskyi posted on Telegram, adding that Ukrainian soldiers are retreating from devastated positions and establishing new fortifications.

"Providing safety to our soldiers is the topmost priority. Therefore, they'll move to the new positions, if required," he said.

Tarnavskyi also noted confidently that the Ukrainian army still "holds the city" and will continue sending reinforcements and ammunition. He said, "The enemy continues its onslaught with artillery and massive bombardments, literally demolishing the city. They're throwing all their reserves into the attack, moving them from other directions, trying to breach our defences."

As one of the eastern cities of Ukraine in the Donetsk Oblast, Avdiivka is currently witnessing some of the most severe conflicts. The Russians are making inroads and may potentially cut off the city. Avdiivka is critically positioned as the gateway to the nearby city of Donetsk. Donetsk, the largest city seized by Russian-backed separatists as early as 2014 and under occupation since then, was later illegitimately annexed by Moscow. After enduring months of relentless combat, Avdiivka now lies almost completely decimated.