Russia Secures Avdiivka in Strategic Victory, Ukrainian Forces Withdraw

The capture of Avdiivka marks Russia's most significant gain since May 2023, as Ukrainian troops retreat to avoid encirclement.

Russia claims full control of Avdiivka, marking its biggest territorial gain since capturing Bakhmut in May 2023.
Ukrainian forces withdrew from Avdiivka to avoid encirclement, with some troops still holding out in a Soviet-era coke plant.
The capture of Avdiivka is seen as a significant victory for Russia, boosting morale ahead of Putin's re-election bid.
U.S. President Biden highlights ammunition shortages as a key factor in Avdiivka's fall, urging Congress to pass a new military aid package for Ukraine.
The battle for Avdiivka has resulted in heavy casualties and has been described as one of the most intense of the war.