Outgunned and facing dwindling ammunition, Ukrainian forces are making a desperate stand against a rapidly advancing Russian assault on the key eastern city. This potential fall of Avdiivka could mark a major turning point in the war, handing Putin his biggest victory yet and raising alarming questions about Ukraine's ability to resist without further Western support.
The Russian military has launched a relentless campaign on Avdiivka, employing guided bombs and cutting off vital supply lines. With Ukrainian artillery ammunition critically low, holding back the invaders has become an increasingly daunting task. The Biden administration blames Congress's delay in approving additional military aid for this dire shortage, potentially allowing Russia to seize control.
Amidst the grim situation, President Zelensky prioritizes preserving his dwindling troop strength, recognizing their irreplaceable value in the face of a larger and better-equipped adversary. While reinforcements have been sent, including the elite 3rd Assault Brigade, the capture of Avdiivka seems imminent.
If Avdiivka falls, it will be Putin's most significant conquest since last May. Despite this potential win, Russia's progress has been slow and costly, marked by heavy casualties and damaged equipment. Ukrainian officials remain hopeful, believing Russian forces lack the coordination and skilled personnel needed for a decisive breakthrough.
The Senate's approval of a $60 billion aid package offers a glimmer of hope, but its passage through the Republican-controlled House remains uncertain. National Security Council officials emphasize the crucial role artillery ammunition plays in deterring Russian attacks, highlighting the urgency of passing the bill.
Ukrainian forces have been forced to withdraw from strategic positions to avoid encirclement. Commander Tarnavskiy emphasizes they held their ground for as long as it was tactically sound, inflicting maximum damage on the enemy.
Ukrainian soldiers on the ground paint a grim picture of acute ammunition shortages. With a 5:1 artillery disparity in Russia's favor, they often have to hold fire even when targets are within sights, desperately conserving their limited resources.
The potential fall of Avdiivka symbolizes the immense challenge Ukraine faces against its larger neighbor, particularly without adequate US support. This critical juncture demands swift action and decisive decision-making to bolster Ukraine's defense and potentially alter the course of the war.
