British intelligence believes Russian offensive on Avdiivka will be most significant since start of year

British intelligence reported this.

They noted that the Russians will attempt to surround Avdiivka with several armored battalions.

"It is likely to be the most significant offensive operation undertaken by Russia since at least January 2023," the report reads.

At the same time, the Ukrainian Defense Forces are currently holding back the Russian offensive, with the latter suffering heavy equipment and personnel losses.

"Slow progress and high casualties have likely triggered a change in messaging from Russia, from an offensive to 'active defense', as successfully clearing Avdiivka looks increasingly unlikely in the short term," British intelligence said.

• The General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces reported in an evening summary on October 16 that the invaders had unsuccessfully stormed the positions of the Ukrainian military in the Avdiivka direction.