Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.

The Ukrainian military reported on Monday that fierce fighting is ongoing in the area surrounding Avdiivka, an eastern Ukrainian town, with Russian forces intensifying their aerial bombardments and ground assaults.

Video reportedly showing a Russian soldiers killed from fighting in Avdiivka

According to Ukrainian officials, Russian troops have incurred heavy losses around Avdiivka, and Ukrainian forces have successfully thwarted Russian offensives along the extensive 1,000-km front line. In addition, Ukrainian troops have also had significant losses.

Video reportedly showing a Ukrainian soldier injured from fighting in Avdiivka

Since shifting focus to eastern Ukraine after initial setbacks near Kyiv, Russia has made concerted efforts to capture Avdiivka, which lies just 20 km from the Russian-held city of Donetsk. Oleksandr Shtupun, a Ukrainian military spokesperson, said there had been increased Russian air strikes and infantry movements in the region. He noted that Ukrainian forces had repelled multiple attacks in Avdiivka despite intensified Russian efforts involving armored vehicles and fighter aircraft.

Vitaliy Barabash, head of Avdiivka’s military administration, reported Russian casualties in the ongoing offensive, estimating thousands of deaths and injuries.

Avdiivka itself has endured extensive damage, with almost all buildings destroyed, a minimal remaining population, and continuous shelling. Despite these challenges, the hospital continues to operate, and limited commercial activity persists.

This comes as Ukraine’s General Staff further reported successful defenses against Russian attacks near other strategic locations, including Maryinka, Bakhmut, and Kupiansk.