The Battle of Avdiivka: Putin's biggest victory in Ukraine, the importance of Avdiivka

Ukraine has announced its withdrawal from the strategic city of Avdiivka in the Donetsk region, which has been the focus of intense combat. The city, largely destroyed and with a prewar population of over 30,000 reduced to around 1,000 residents, holds significant strategic and logistical value. The capture of Avdiivka by Russian forces is seen as a symbolic win for Moscow and could potentially make it more difficult for Ukraine to stage attempts to reclaim the regional capital of Donetsk. The withdrawal is expected to boost Russian morale ahead of the second anniversary of the war and reinforce concerns about Ukraine's military supplies and personnel. The city's capture is not considered a significant operational gain, but it could set conditions for further limited tactical gains.

The situation in Avdiivka is dire, with the city shown in ruins and almost every house branded with signs of war. The capture of the city by Russian forces has been hailed as an important victory by President Vladimir Putin and his military. The withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from Avdiivka comes after months of heavy fighting and little progress in repelling Russian forces on the country's eastern front.

The city has been the site of intense fighting, with both sides incurring heavy losses. Its capture is a symbolic and strategic blow, and it holds particular symbolism for Russia as it was briefly taken in 2014 by Moscow-backed separatists. The fall of Avdiivka is Russia’s biggest gain since capturing the city of Bakhmut in May 2023.

Avdiivka's importance lies in its strategic and logistical value, its proximity to Donetsk city, and its role as a gateway to the region.

Subscribe for daily news