Russian troops break through defense near Verbove and Robotyne, Zaporizhzhia — DeepState

The non-governmental Ukrainian project DeepState reported the information, based on open data.

Situation at the front as of the end of February 18

According to analysts, the situation remains unchanged in the Belomoskovsky, Siversky and Belgorod sections of the frontline. 

In the Svatove sector, Russian troops are rotating and increasing pressure near Terny and Yampolivka.

In the Bakhmut sector, Russian troops conducted an assault on Bilohorivka, but were repulsed. Near Ivanivka, they are making progress and attacking.

In the Avdiivka sector, Russian forces conducted unsuccessful assault operations near Lastochkyne with a significant number of infantry. Currently, they are amassing in the area and plan to resume assault operations in the coming days.

"The Russians are attacking in Pervomaiske and came close to Nevelske. Fighting is ongoing near Heorhiivka, Pobieda and Novomykhailivka, and the enemy has increased pressure on the Ukrainian Defense Forces," the analysts noted.

In the Berdyansk sector, fighting continues, the Russian army has intensified its activities near Novodonetske,

In the Zaporizhzhia sector, Russian troops launched a massive attack from Robotyne to Verbove. Southwest of Verbove, they managed to break through the defense, and now the Ukrainian Armed Forces are trying to eliminate this problem.

According to analysts, on February 18, the intensity at the front somewhat decreased. Some Russian troops managed to break through in Robotyne, but most were eliminated.

The Tavria sector remains unchanged.

Analytical note

"After the fighting for Avdiivka itself is over, the Russians need to decide where to move their main forces next. The enemy may try to enter the operational space to the west of the city or concentrate on Kupyansk, Chasiv Yar or Robotyne," DeepState summarized.

• According to DeepState, as of Sunday evening, February 18, 2024, Russian troops had a small tactical success in advancing on the village of Robotyne, Zaporizhzhia region.