Tag: Ukrainian soldiers

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Ukrainian Soldiers Captured by Russian Forces During Avdiivka Withdrawal

In a significant development amid escalating tensions, Russian forces have captured several Ukrainian soldiers during the withdrawal of Kyiv’s forces from the strategic town of Avdiivka. This revelation comes directly from Ukraine’s commander of southern forces, Oleksandr Tarnavskyi.

The decision to withdraw from Avdiivka was announced by Ukraine on Friday, marking a critical strategic shift in the ongoing conflict. Avdiivka, located northwest of Donetsk city, has been a focal point of intense fighting between Ukrainian and Russian forces in recent weeks.

According to Tarnavskyi, the withdrawal was deemed “the only correct solution” in the face of overwhelming Russian firepower. He cited Moscow’s relentless airstrikes, artillery barrages, and ground assaults as factors that necessitated the retreat. Tarnavskyi emphasized the numerical superiority of Russian troops in terms of personnel, artillery, and aviation, making the withdrawal a strategic imperative for Ukrainian forces. Reports indicate that Russian forces intensified their attacks on Avdiivka in the past 24 hours, with over 20 airstrikes and more than 150 artillery attacks reported. Ukrainian troops described the conditions as “hellish,” with the enemy closing in from all sides.

The decision to withdraw comes just days after Ukraine’s military chief, Oleksandr Syrskyi, and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov visited the front lines in Avdiivka. Despite earlier pledges to send reinforcements, Syrskyi ultimately ordered the withdrawal to prevent encirclement and preserve the lives of Ukrainian servicemen. In a statement on social media, Syrskyi affirmed that Ukrainian forces had inflicted significant losses on the Russian military in Avdiivka. However, facing overwhelming odds, the decision was made to regroup and defend more favorable positions.

The capture of Avdiivka holds strategic significance for both sides, with the town lying just kilometers north of Donetsk airport. Its capture would have bolstered Moscow’s position, particularly with Russia’s presidential election looming. As the situation continues to evolve rapidly, the international community watches closely, hoping for a de-escalation of tensions and a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine.

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Winter Warfare Struggles: Ukrainian Soldiers Chronicle Russia’s Lethal Advance through Gas Attacks and Drone Offensives

In the face of a renewed and deadly surge by Russian forces on the frontlines, Ukrainian soldiers are grappling with a grim winter reality. The anticipated summer breakthrough has given way to a harsh winter characterized by Russian resurgence and escalating losses for Kyiv. Ukrainian commander Ihor, stationed in Orikhiv, recounts the challenges faced, including the impact of Russian drones hitting a gas fuel tank, leaving a soldier injured and ultimately dead. The use of convict recruits, well-trained and equipped, has intensified the conflict, with Ukrainian drones outnumbered and facing relentless attacks.

A new and disturbing threat emerges as gas is employed as a weapon, dropped by drones onto Ukrainian lines, causing fatalities and panic. Ukrainian soldiers report instances of a caustic and flammable gas, suspected to be CS gas, leading to burns, welts, and respiratory distress. The use of chemical agents in warfare is prohibited by international conventions, adding a layer of brutality to Russia’s tactics.

The winter battle is further complicated by challenges such as Russian jamming affecting Ukrainian drones, and the sheer number of Russian forces at the front, reminiscent of a “meatgrinder.” Despite efforts by Ukrainian soldiers, including a drone unit attempting to counter Russian movements, the crisis is exacerbated by limited resources and vehicles, leaving the evacuation of the injured vulnerable to Russian drone attacks.

Commander Ihor emphasizes the critical need for support from the US and EU, pointing out the dire situation depicted in grainy drone images. Without substantial backing, Ukrainian forces fear their ability to withstand the Russian onslaught is severely compromised.