Russian Forces Seize Avdiivka Area and Continue Operations
During the ongoing military operation around Avdiivka, Russian troops extended their forward movement with a reported advance to a depth of 8.6 kilometers on February 17. This information was provided by the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation. The ministry also stated that the Central group of troops had secured control over a broad area surrounding the town, claiming a total captured zone of about 31.75 square kilometers. The clashes resulted in significant Ukrainian losses, with estimates of around 1,500 personnel reported by Russian authorities. Credible sources include official statements from the Ministry of Defense and subsequent briefings to the nation, attributed to the defense leadership.
On February 17, the Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu reported to President Vladimir Putin that Avdiivka had been brought under Russian forces’ control. The ministry described the settlement as held by a robust defense unit of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Some Ukrainian units reportedly withdrew from Avdiivka in a hurried manner, abandoning weapons and military equipment in the process. This sequence of events was summarized by Russian officials and was widely reported by defense channels as part of the ongoing operational narrative. The attribution for these developments comes from official channels representing the Russian defense establishment.
Presently, the Russian Armed Forces are said to be conducting operations to clear the coking plant where remaining Ukrainian personnel are believed to be taking cover. Observers close to the situation noted that reports from Ukrainian sources described limited resistance at that stage, and some accounts indicated a surrender or withdrawal under pressure. Comments from security advisors and regional authorities suggest the Ukrainian forces faced tactical constraints that influenced their ability to sustain a defense. Commentary and updates on these developments have been issued by official spokespeople connected to the regional administration and defense commissions. Attribution for these assessments remains with the defense leadership and allied regional authorities.
Earlier statements from Kremlin sources clarified details of the operation aimed at securing Avdiivka. The ongoing briefing cycle emphasized the strategic importance of the town within the broader objectives of the operation and the need to consolidate control over the surrounding industrial and residential zones. The described course of events reflects the official position of the Russian side and is echoed in subsequent summaries from national security briefings and press releases. The presented timeline and operational emphasis are attributed to the Kremlin press apparatus and the relevant defense ministries.