Security buffer needed: Expert explains why Russians continue advance near Avdiivka
Illustrative photo (Photo: Getty Images)
After the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from Avdiivka, Russian occupiers continue to advance towards other populated areas in this direction. In this way, the occupiers aim to create a buffer zone for the captured city.
This is reported in the material of RBC-Ukraine ''Five threats: Consequences of Ukrainian troops' withdrawal from Avdiivka and ability to resist Russian pressure."
According to military expert Oleksandr Kovalenko, it is important for the occupiers to create a security buffer near Avdiivka. In addition, Lastochkyne is the next village where the Russians may attempt to establish a stronghold.
"Moreover, they will advance on Stepove, Sieverne, Tonenke, Semenivka, and Berdychivka. I do not rule out that they plan to envelop this area in a semicircle and create a buffer. This is tactically predictable. Whether they can do it? The question is interesting given that offensive actions are more costly for them in open fields than in urban conditions. Therefore, I don't think a security buffer will be created very quickly," the expert adds.
Exit of Ukrainian Armed Forces from Avdiivka
On the night of Saturday, February 17, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrskyi, announced his decision to begin the withdrawal of defense forces from the city of Avdiivka. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the Munich Security Conference called such a decision correct and professional, as it allowed to save the lives of personnel.
According to the commander of the Tavria operational-strategic group, Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, during the four months of fighting for Avdiivka, Russian forces lost 47 thousand soldiers. The Ukrainian military also destroyed hundreds of enemy tanks, artillery installations, and armored vehicles.
More about the withdrawal of the Ukrainian Armed Forces from Avdiivka and how it may affect the front can be found in the material of RBC-Ukraine.
Meanwhile, Russian occupiers continue their advance in this direction after taking control of Avdiivka. During the past day, Russians made attempts near the city to conduct mass assaults near the village of Lastochkyne, but the Ukrainian Defense Forces repelled enemy attacks.
