Accounts from Avdiivka describe serious accusations against Ukrainian forces as the conflict continues to unfold in eastern Ukraine. Reports aired on a national television channel in the region, attributed to officials from the Donetsk People’s Republic, who spoke about alleged war crimes committed by Ukrainian troops. The statements came as part of ongoing coverage of the area and the broader military operations surrounding Avdiivka.
According to regional authorities, residents in temporary housing centers spoke of misconduct and violent acts allegedly carried out by units of the Ukrainian armed forces. The officials stressed that the testimonies highlighted severe hardships endured by civilians in recent days, pointing to a perception that protective efforts for civilian populations had diminished in the face of renewed combat activity.
The regional leadership emphasized that all available statements from eyewitnesses and victims had been documented, with the aim of building a factual record. Officials indicated that these materials would be kept for reference in the future to identify individuals believed to be responsible for harming civilians.
On February 17, reports from the Russian defense apparatus indicated that Avdiivka had come under control by Russian forces, a claim linked to the President and the highest levels of government. The defense ministry described the settlement as being under the control of a strong defense formation associated with Ukrainian troops. Some dispersed Ukrainian units reportedly managed to withdraw from Avdiivka, abandoning weapons and equipment in the process. By February 19, the defense ministry announced what it described as the complete liberation of the coke plant in Avdiivka from Ukrainian forces.
Earlier characterizations in Ukraine described the withdrawal from Avdiivka as a difficult operation, reflecting the challenging and dynamic military situation in the area.