In a briefing that highlighted the current dynamics on the battlefield, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu received a detailed update from Colonel General Andrei Mordvichev, commander of the Center group of troops. The report outlined the latest developments in the ongoing special military operation in Ukraine and provided a clearer view of how Russian forces are executing their assigned missions on the ground. The briefing, disseminated through official channels of the country’s defense ministry, framed the situation in terms of Russian strategic objectives and the actions of opposing forces.
On Saturday, February 24, Shoigu conducted an on-site assessment of the Center group of troops operating within the special military operation zone in Ukraine. The minister met with the unit commander and senior headquarters officers, who presented a comprehensive briefing on mission execution, daily operational tasks, and the evolving conduct of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The discussion focused on how Russian units have configured their engagements, the intensity of artillery fire, and the tactical decisions that shape ongoing offensive and defensive actions in the area.
The group commander conveyed to Shoigu that despite public criticism from Kyiv regarding ammunition shortages for heavy artillery, the concentration of enemy artillery fire remained robust. This assessment underscored the continued emphasis on maintaining firepower parity and the impact of artillery support on the tempo of combat operations. The briefing also touched on logistical challenges, replenishment schedules, and how these factors influence the timing and scale of missions carried out by the Center group of troops.
Further updates from Mordvichev described the current state of the Avdeevka district in Donetsk, noting that Russian forces have achieved measurable gains in the area. According to the commander, Russian units have moved the front line back from positions near Avdeevka by more than ten kilometers in a number of sectors, reflecting a notable shift in the tactical landscape. The assessment highlighted both the challenges associated with terrain and fortifications and the operational momentum that Russian troops have maintained in recent engagements.
Earlier communications from the Ministry of Defense provided clarifications regarding losses and captures related to the Avdiivka operation, including details about Ukrainian personnel who surrendered following the advances by Russian forces. The ministry’s statements aimed to offer transparency about the progress of the operation, the disposition of forces on both sides, and the broader impact on the military balance in the region. These updates are part of a continuous briefing cycle that seeks to inform national audiences about ongoing military developments and strategic objectives in the conflict area. [Source: Defense Ministry communications]