Russia claims “total control” of Avdiïvka: 24 hours after the Ukrainian withdrawal, kyiv delivers a first bitter assessment. White House establishing a link between this symbolic success conceded to Russia by the Ukrainians and the blocking of additional military aid to Kiev by the American Congress.
Ukraine retreats The Ukrainian army has no choice but to strengthen its defense lines by moving them back. New trenches are already being dug. The main strategic interest is the protection of the large city of Donetsk which will now be a little more sheltered from Ukrainian artillery.