Russian Attacks in Eastern Ukraine

Ukrainian forces have managed to resist unrelenting Russian attacks in the city of Avdiivka. Despite the heavy devastation in the town, the defense line has held for a month and a half, with fewer than 1,400 residents remaining. Russian forces have intensified their attacks, including air strikes with an average of eight to 30 per day. The town is protected by fortifications erected after a brief seizure by Russian-financed separatists in 2014. In addition to the attacks on Avdiivka, Russian forces have targeted other areas in eastern Ukraine, including attempts to advance near Kupansk in the northeast and shelling incidents in the Kherson region. Despite the challenging conditions and Russian focus on capturing Avdiivka, Ukrainian forces have managed to hold their ground and make marginal gains in the east and south.