Zelenskyy visits Ukrainian positions in Avdiivka

The head of state discussed the current situation and the needs of the fighters at the positions of Ukrainian defenders.

"Avdiivka. Visited the positions of the 110th Separate Mechanized Brigade named after General Mark Bezruchko. One of the most difficult sections of the front," said the president.

Zelenskyy also mentioned that he thanked the Ukrainian soldiers. In particular, he honored the best soldiers with state awards and presented the Golden Star of the Hero of Ukraine to Junior Sergeant Ihor Tymoshchuk.

"We discussed the defensive situation with the commander, the main needs... Thank you to everyone on the front line for their service, for this year that the whole country endured thanks to such warriors. Those who defend our state despite everything. Those who give a combat result every day," the statement says.

Details of Zelenskyy's visit to Avdiivka

The press service of the President reported that during the trip to the Donetsk region, Zelenskyy visited the advanced checkpoint and observation post of the 110th Separate Mechanized Brigade named after General-Major Mark Bezruchko, which is located in Avdiivka.

"The head of state listened to the report of the brigade commander - Hero of Ukraine Mykola Chumak - on the operational situation in the direction and the course of defensive actions. According to the brigade commander, Russian invaders spare no one, but our defenders firmly hold positions and even capture enemy soldiers," the publication stated.

During his visit to Avdiivka, Zelenskyy questioned the military about their essential needs, with a recurring mention of the necessity for personnel reinforcement and electronic warfare (REB) equipment. However, soldiers noted a significant improvement recently in drone equipment, according to the Office of the President.

It is also highlighted that Junior Sergeant Ihor Tymoshchuk, who was awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine and received the "Golden Star" order from Zelensky, personally plans, directs, and participates in assault operations. The Office stated that groups under his leadership have repeatedly destroyed enemy forces, captured enemy soldiers, and regained control of positions.

"Thanks to the successful restoration of lost defensive positions, Ihor Tymoshchuk prevented the enemy from breaking through to Avdiivka, ensuring the defense of a crucial line for the country's defense," the statement said.

The president also awarded the Cross of Military Merit to Senior Lieutenant Yevhen Baikov, who received the Order of Bohdan Khmelnytsky of the third degree and the Order For Courage of the third degree.

In addition, for the safety of the personnel, the president handed over awards to be presented to servicemen in their locations.

Situation in Avdiivka

Recall that Russian occupiers intensified fighting in the Avdiivka area at the beginning of October. This offensive is considered the most extensive since 2014.

A month ago, British intelligence reported that Russian attacks on Avdiivka had increased losses for the aggressor country by 90%. At that time, the Armed Forces of Ukraine claimed significant losses for the occupiers - they lost 6,500 soldiers in the Avdiivka area alone since October 10.

Additionally, according to White House data as of mid-December, Russian troops suffered over 13,000 casualties along the Avdiivka-Novopavlivka axis. Ukrainian forces, including the destruction of over 220 combat vehicles, contributed to these losses.

Yesterday, on December 28, the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine announced that Ukrainian defenders had regained a previously lost position on the Avdiivka front.