Stoltenberg made such statements at a press conference in Brussels.

“The retreat of Ukrainian forces from Avdiivka demonstrates that the situation on the battlefield is extremely difficult, but the Ukrainians are constantly exceeding [the alliance’s] expectations, and NATO will continue to support Ukraine,” TASS quotes the Secretary General.

On February 20, President Vladimir Putin said that the success of Russian troops in Avdievka needs to be developed, but the development must be prepared and ensured. To date, the Russian Armed Forces have been able to achieve a turning point in the most difficult sectors of the front.