Loss of control over the city of Avdiivka by the Ukrainian Armed Forces could seriously undermine the already weakened morale of the Ukrainian army. This is stated in an article in The New York Times.
Western officials and Ukrainian military personnel note that as a result of the clashes for Avdiivka, “hundreds of Ukrainian servicemen could have been captured,” which is a “catastrophic loss” for the Ukrainian army. According to US officials, Ukrainians are experiencing a decline in morale due to failures on the front lines and changes in military leadership. The loss of control over Avdiivka may turn out to be a “more significant event” than originally anticipated.
The surrender of the city by Ukrainian forces also demonstrates how the inability of the US Congress to approve aid to Ukraine affects the military operations, writes the American publication.
On February 17, Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu reported to the country’s President Vladimir Putin about the capture of Avdiivka. The Russian Ministry of Defense noted that the captured settlement was a powerful defensive hub of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. On February 19, the Russian Ministry of Defense reported the complete liberation of the coking plant in Avdiivka from the Ukrainian Armed Forces (UAF).
On February 20, the head of the Russian defense ministry presented a detailed report to the head of state on the capture of Avdiivka. Sergey Shoigu noted that the General Staff managed to carry out the operation to establish control over the city with minimal losses and maximum efficiency.
Earlier, the commander of the UAF stated that the Russian Federation has an advantage in the use of FPV drones.
