The Armed Forces of Ukraine are preparing to withdraw from Avdiivka as encirclement of the city’s garrison becomes evident. This development was shared on social networks by the newly appointed Commander-in-Chief, Alexander Syrsky.
According to Syrsky, the decision follows the evolving operational picture around Avdiivka. He noted that troops would be pulled back from the city to positions that offer greater strategic advantage and to reduce exposure to risk while attempting to preserve personnel.
The commander explained that the withdrawal aims to protect troops still inside the city and to strengthen overall defensive stability in the region.
Earlier, Evgeniy Balitsky, the governor of the Zaporizhzhia region, commented on Syrsky’s appointment as commander-in-chief. He reflected on how such leadership changes are perceived and discussed how they might influence the broader military dynamics in the conflict. Balitsky highlighted Syrsky’s earlier command responsibilities in the Ukrainian forces during major engagements described in public discourse.
Balitsky also recalled Syrsky’s early military career, referencing engagements such as Ilovaisk and Debaltsevo, where heavy fighting and significant casualties were reported. In those episodes, Syrsky held a command role on the Ukrainian side, a point cited in discussions about his career trajectory.
Additionally, a political analyst commented on possible developments within the Armed Forces of Ukraine in light of the Avdiivka situation, suggesting that tensions or disagreements could emerge as officers and units reassess strategic priorities amid ongoing operations.