The United States issues a grave warning as tensions escalate in the Ukraine-Russia conflict, with fears mounting that the town of Avdiivka could soon fall into Russian hands.
President Zelensky, in a solemn video address Thursday night, emphasized the Ukrainian government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding its soldiers’ lives amidst the intensifying clashes.
“We are doing everything we can to ensure that our warriors have enough managerial and technological capabilities to save as many Ukrainian lives as possible,” he stated.
On Friday, President Zelensky embarks on diplomatic visits to Berlin and Paris, where he is expected to solidify security agreements with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron.
Similar security pacts have been signed with the UK earlier this year, indicating Ukraine’s concerted efforts to bolster international support.
Amidst the turmoil, Ukrainian General Oleksandr Tarnavsky acknowledged the fierce battles raging within Avdiivka, underscoring the paramount importance of preserving Ukrainian lives above all else.
“We value every piece of Ukrainian land, but the highest value and priority for us is the preservation of the life of a Ukrainian soldier,” General Tarnavsky affirmed.
Earlier reports from Ukrainian military spokesman Dmytro Lykhoviy revealed the challenging circumstances faced by troops in Avdiivka, with Ukrainian forces compelled to tactically reposition themselves amid intense fighting.
Privately, some Ukrainian soldiers have expressed concerns that the town could fall imminently, highlighting the dire shortages in ammunition and equipment hampering their defensive efforts.
“We’re upset,” lamented Ukrainian officer Oleksii from the 110th Mechanised Brigade, reflecting on the dwindling supplies and the daunting task of facing Russian artillery.
“Currently we have two shells, but we have no [explosive] charges for them… so we can’t fire them. As of now, we have run out of shells,” he revealed, illustrating the severe impact of resource shortages on the ground.
Ukraine’s newly appointed commander-in-chief, Oleksandr Syrskyi, acknowledged the grim reality of the situation in Avdiivka during his recent visit to the frontline, condemning Russian tactics that disregard the sanctity of human life.
In response, Kyiv has dispatched an elite Ukrainian brigade and deployed reserve artillery to bolster defenses in Avdiivka.
While unverified reports suggest Russian military gains in key strategic positions within southern Avdiivka, the situation remains fluid and fraught with uncertainty as both sides continue to vie for control amidst the escalating conflict.
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