Analysts from DeepState report a strategic move by Russian forces, as they successfully take control of two additional villages, Stepove and Severne, located to the west and northwest of Avdiivka in the Donetsk region. This advancement follows their earlier occupation of Lastochkin.
DeepState shared via Telegram: "The enemy has made progress near Orlivka, Berdychi, and Tonenko, securing the areas of Stepov and Severny. Questions arise on where the OSUV Tavria command will establish its next 'prepared' defensive lines."
Further details provided by DeepState indicate a concerted effort by Russian troops to push west of Avdiivka, aiming to penetrate deeper into operational territories.
While challenges persist in other regions, the area around Avdiivka faces the most significant pressure, according to analysts.
Defensive Withdrawals
Despite Ukrainian forces repelling four attacks in Stepove just this Sunday, the decision was made to withdraw from the village due to escalating risks. Russian forces are now consolidating their position on the western edges of the village and have incurred substantial losses from Ukrainian artillery.
Russian assaults continue in Orlivka, with forces moving into the village, and efforts to breach Tonenko from the north. Video evidence has emerged of Russian troops clearing debris in Severny's western outskirts.
The offensive has also intensified around Krasnohorivka, with Russian forces launching attacks from both the south and east. Assaults persist in Georgiivka, Novomykhailivka, and Pobyeda, where Ukrainian Defense Forces have mounted a significant defense.
Tactical Shifts
On February 17, the Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrsky, announced the withdrawal of Ukrainian units from Avdiivka.
Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, commander of the operational-strategic group "Tavria," assured that the defenders had regrouped at new front lines. Despite losses, some soldiers were reported missing or captured.
Following the occupation of Lastochkine on February 24, a statement on February 25 by Dmytro Lykhoviy, a spokesman for the "Tavria" forces, detailed the Ukrainian retreat to Lastochkine's western outskirts into "prepared defensive positions."
However, by February 26, it was confirmed that Ukrainian forces had withdrawn from Lastochkine to defend along the Orlivka - Tonenke - Berdychi line.
