Russian forces launch assaults from three directions in attempt to encircle Ukrainian troops in Avdiivka sector

Major Hetman shared this during an interview on Espreso TV.

"The occupiers are attempting military maneuvers from the east through Spartak, launching attacks from two fronts. From Stepove from the north, and striving to reach the Coke Plant, Pervomaiske, Vodyane, and Opytne from the south. This is just a few kilometers from Avdiivka, where industrial zones are less concentrated. Their strategy involves surrounding from the north, south, and east, creating a kind of pincer movement. The occupiers are employing assault tactics," he explained.

Hetman reports that the Russian army has escalated artillery fire, aiming to disrupt the supply chains of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

"The occupiers have obtained projectiles from North Korea and are actively deploying MLRS. The Russians are attempting to damage the roads critical for supplying ammunition and essential resources needed for our military operations," he stated.

As of today, there is no significant progress for Russian forces. The frontline remains dynamic, undergoing slight changes. However, there are currently 40,000 Russian servicemen near Avdiivka, according to the reserve major.

"A group of 40,000 servicemen can be called an army, and it significantly outnumbers our garrison there — at least ten times more. Despite this, the Armed Forces of Ukraine have secured strategic positions and adeptly maintained their defense," he added.

• In November, Ukrainian Armed Forces serviceman Andriy Shyshuk mentioned that safeguarding the Avdiivka Coke Plant was impeding Ukrainian military actions.
• On November 21, Avdiivka administration head Vitaliy Barabash reported that 15 civilians were still at the Coke Plant.
• On December 6, Ukrainian forces moved east of the railway near the Avdiivka Coke Plant, compelling Russian troops to retreat from two positions, as reported by the Institute for the Study of War.
• On December 9, Major Maksym Morozov shared updates on the Avdiivka situation. Ukrainian Defense Forces are engaged in combat in the industrial zone, facing critical circumstances.
• On December 9, Avdiivka city military administration head Vitaliy Barabash mentioned that twelve people sheltering at the Avdiivka Coke Plant were evacuated to Pokrovsk, Donetsk region.
• Roman Svitan, a military expert and reserve colonel of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, emphasized the importance of holding Avdiivka. He argued that a retreat of 20 km to the second defense line could jeopardize the entire front.
• According to the morning update from the Ukrainian General Staff, Ukrainian Armed Forces successfully repelled numerous attacks in the Avdiivka and Bakhmut areas during the last day at the front.