AVDIIVKA
Russia obliterates front-line Ukraine towns by retrofitting bombs and expanding its air base network
A devastating Russian bombing of Kharkiv's Epicenter store left 19 dead and unleashed shockwaves across Ukraine. Using retrofitted Soviet-era bombs, Russia's attacks have intensified, targeting cities like Avdiivka, Chasiv Yar, and Vovchansk. Investigators hope an unexploded bomb will trace the supply chain for these destructive weapons. Despite restrictions on hitting Russian airfields, Ukraine remains determined to defend its cities. Survivors, like salesperson Nina Korsunova, vow to stay in their hometowns, refusing to be driven away by terror.
Ukraine orders evacuations from parts of Donetsk
Ukraine has ordered the evacuation of children and their guardians from several towns and villages in the eastern Donetsk region, where fighting with Russia is escalating. The move comes as President Zelensky stated that Russian firepower is concentrated in Donetsk, which Russia claimed to have annexed in 2022 despite not having full control. The Donetsk governor cited the deteriorating security situation and increasing shelling intensity as reasons for the evacuation. Several areas near the front line, including the town of Lyman and the hamlet of Progres, are affected.
Russian missiles kill 6 in Ukraine's second-largest city where Moscow's troops are pressing
Zelenskyy highlights fighting along the border. Ukrainian rockets shot down in Belgorod region. Regional Gov Vyacheslav Gladkov reports civilian casualties.
Russia takes five villages in Ukraine's Kharkiv region, defence ministry says
In its briefing on Saturday, the Defence Ministry said that Russian forces had taken the villages of Pletenivka, Ohirtseve, Borysivka, Pylna and Strilechna, all of which are directly on the Russian border.
Russia ramps up Ukraine offensive ahead of arms boost
Russia has intensified its offensive in Donbas, making significant gains over the past month. The recent capture of Ocheretyne follows the fall of Avdiivka in February, with Russian forces advancing westwards. Ukraine's defence ministry reported 125 Russian attacks along the front line in 24 hours, with a focus on Ocheretyne and Chasiv Yar. While there have been no major breakthroughs, the advance has surprised Ukraine and led to criticism within the country. Ukraine has warned of ammunition shortages, despite Western aid approval, which could take two months to materialize.
No safety in retreat: Ukrainian soldiers say rear defensive lines barely exist amid Russian advance
Ukrainian soldiers face daunting challenges as they battle better-armed Russian forces. Devastating Russian aerial glide bombs, out of reach of Ukraine's air defenses, are targeting their positions, forcing retreats from villages and defensive lines weakened by relentless shelling. Ukraine is scrambling to build fortifications, but bureaucracy, lack of equipment, and ongoing attacks hinder progress. The delayed US aid package aims to bolster Ukraine's defenses, but until then, Russia continues to exploit vulnerabilities.
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Drone footage shows devastation in Ukraine's strategic eastern city of Chasiv Yar as Russians near
Russian artillery has devastated the strategic city of Chasiv Yar in eastern Ukraine, leaving barely a building intact and the town deserted. Drone footage shows the apocalyptic aftermath, with homes and offices destroyed. The city, once bustling with 12,000 residents, now lies deserted amid the green fields. The destruction mirrors other cities in Ukraine, like Bakhmut and Avdiivka, which suffered similar fates after months of bombardment. Ukrainian troops, outnumbered and short on ammunition, await international aid as Russia's assault intensifies, raising fears of a broader offensive.
Russia's defence minister orders more weapons for Ukraine operation
At a meeting with the top military command for Moscow's fight in Ukraine, the chief of the general staff, Valery Gerasimov, who is in charge of the operation, delivered a report to Shoigu, the ministry said on the Telegram messaging app.
Ukraine warns front 'worsened' as Russia claims fresh gains
Ukraine's army chief acknowledged a worsening battlefield situation as Russian forces seized another village in the east, gaining ground with superior manpower and ammunition. Ukrainian troops retreated to new defensive lines near Donetsk, facing heavy fighting and tactical setbacks. Despite US approval of a $61 billion aid package, including weapons, Kyiv faces challenges with Russia's advancing troops. President Zelensky stressed the urgent need for Patriot anti-missile systems, anticipating a tough period ahead in mid-May to early June.
In Western Ukraine, a community wrestles with patriotism or survival
The war in Ukraine has deeply impacted communities like Duliby, where residents mourn the loss of loved ones in the conflict. The deaths of soldiers, including the Vyshyvany brothers, have brought the war closer to home for many. As the conflict continues, divisions have emerged between those directly affected by the war and those less impacted. The community's response to the ongoing tragedy reflects the complex emotions and challenges faced by many Ukrainians as they grapple with the war's toll on their families and communities.
Ukraine's farm minister is the latest corruption suspect as Kyiv aims to undo recent Russian gains
Ukraine's National Anti-Corruption Bureau suspects Solskyi headed an organized crime group that between 2017 and 2021 unlawfully obtained land worth 291 million hryvnias ($6.85 million) and attempted to obtain other land worth 190 million hryvnias ($4.47 million).
UK announces $620 million in new military aid for Ukraine and plan to up own defense spending
The UK has pledged an additional $620 million in military supplies for Ukraine, including long-range missiles and ammunition, amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak confirmed the assistance in a call with President Zelenskyy, emphasizing UK's support against Russia's aggression. The aid includes vehicles, boats, munitions, and British Storm Shadow missiles. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude, noting the impact on Ukrainian defenders. The announcement follows the US approval of $61 billion in aid for Ukraine. However, it's unclear when the UK aid will be delivered, as Ukraine faces ammunition shortages and ongoing Russian advances.
Russia outgunning Ukraine 6-to-1: Kyiv commander-in-chief
Ukrainian commander-in-chief Syrsky reveals Russia's ammunition advantage, calls for urgent aid. Challenges in Kharkiv and Avdiivka highlighted. Compromised defence integrity prompts Avdiivka withdrawal to prevent encirclement.
Russian strikes kill 14, including rescuers, in Odesa
Local officials said Russian aerial bombardments struck residential buildings and cars leaving at least 14 people dead and wounding another 46 people, including rescuers. "Russian terror in Odesa is a sign of weakness of the enemy, which is fighting Ukrainian civilians at a time when it cannot guarantee security for people on its territory," said Andriy Yermak, a senior government official in Kyiv.
Exhaustion, dwindling reserves and a commander who disappeared: How Ukraine lost Avdiivka to Russia
Within a week, Ukraine had lost Avdiivka, the city in the Donetsk region that it had been defending since long before Russia's full-scale invasion. Nearly surrounded and vastly outnumbered, the Ukrainians made the decision to withdraw and avoid the same kind of deadly siege soldiers experienced in the port city of Mariupol's Azovstal steel mill, where thousands were taken captive or killed.
Russia lacks ammunition production needed for Ukraine war, Western officials say
Russia is reportedly facing challenges in meeting its ammunition needs for the Ukraine war due to insufficient domestic production and the impact of sanctions on its military industry. Western officials noted that Russia's inability to access Western components was hampering its ability to produce new systems and repair old ones. These challenges come as the conflict enters its third year, with Russia claiming control of the town of Avdiivka and warnings of ammunition shortages in Ukraine.
Russia takes Avdiivka from Ukraine, biggest gain in 9 months
The fall of Avdiivka is Russia's biggest gain since capturing the city of Bakhmut in May 2023, and comes almost two years to the day since President Vladimir Putin triggered a full-scale war by ordering the invasion of Ukraine.
Ukraine withdraws from eastern city Avdiivka to 'save our people'
Ukraine withdrew troops from Avdiivka, an eastern stronghold, to save lives amid a Russian push. Facing ammunition shortages and outnumbered, Ukrainian forces made the strategic decision, emphasizing that Russia did not capture the city. The withdrawal marks a symbolic victory for Russia, as Avdiivka had held out for two years. Ukrainian officials stress the need for military aid, with a $60 billion US package held up in Washington. President Zelensky signed security pacts with France and Germany to bolster support in the conflict against Russia.
Ukraine troops withdrew from Avdiivka after months of fierce battles, army chief says
The withdrawal follows months of fierce Russian attacks and marks the biggest change on the front lines since Moscow troops captured Bakhmut in May 2023.
Ukraine claims it shot down a Russian attack helicopter in fierce street battle for Avdiivka city
Ukrainian forces reported shooting down a Russian attack helicopter in eastern Ukraine, near the city of Avdiivka. This incident occurred amidst intense urban combat as Russian forces escalated their four-month campaign to encircle the defending Ukrainian troops in Kyiv. Ukrainian soldiers utilized a portable anti-aircraft missile to bring down the Ka-52 Alligator attack helicopter, which is considered one of the deadliest weapons in the Russian air force.
Why is Avdiivka important and why does Russia want to capture it?
Russian forces escalate efforts to capture Avdiivka, a pivotal city in eastern Ukraine's Donbas region, amid ongoing conflict. With a population reduced to under 1,000, the city, once bustling, now faces devastation. Described as a "fortress" by Russian-backed officials, it holds strategic importance for both sides, serving as a gateway to Donetsk. The intense battle signifies Russia's push for full control over Donbas provinces while posing challenges for Ukrainian forces and influencing Western opinion on Kyiv's support.
Ukrainian drone video provides a grim look at casualties as Russian troops advance toward Avdiivka
Aerial footage near Avdiivka reveals staggering losses—around 150 soldiers, mostly in Russian uniforms, amid rubble and scorched fields. The Ukrainian drone unit captured the aftermath, displaying the apocalyptic scene of destruction. Bodies lay scattered, some possibly Ukrainian, amid burnt trees and ruined farmland. The footage, obtained by Ukraine's BUAR unit and verified by the AP, depicts the grim reality of the ongoing conflict in Eastern Ukraine since Russia's 2022 invasion.
Ukrainian drone video provides a grim look at casualties as Russian troops advance toward Avdiivka
Aerial footage obtained by The Associated Press near Avdiivka in eastern Ukraine reveals staggering losses among Russian forces attempting to capture the town. The footage, shot by a Ukrainian military drone unit, shows the bodies of about 150 soldiers, most in Russian uniforms, scattered along tree lines where they sought cover.
What's at stake in Russia's assault on Avdiivka?
Russian forces escalate assaults on Avdiivka, echoing past conflicts in cities like Bakhmut. Despite Ukraine's attempts to break Russian lines, assessments foresee a prolonged conflict. Avdiivka, a city with a pre-war population of 32,000 and a vital coke plant, now witnesses intense attacks. With just 1,500 residents remaining, the city's destruction is profound. Analysts note high human costs in Russia's offensive, as both sides endure significant losses. Control of Avdiivka is pivotal for Russia's strategy in Donetsk and Luhansk, aiming to expand territory and fortify logistics.
Russia advancing on all fronts in Ukraine: defence minister
Russian forces, despite minimal visible front movement in 2023, persist in intensifying assaults on Ukraine's eastern front. Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu stated troops are strategically advancing, expanding control zones and weakening Ukrainian capabilities. Analysts note incremental Russian gains, notably in Avdiivka, with increased fire damage on Ukrainian forces. While Kyiv's counteroffensive has modestly progressed, facing entrenched Russian positions, a recent claim of a slight retreat near the Dnipro River suggests a potential breakthrough in their efforts against the ongoing conflict.
Zelenskiy says Russia loses 'at least a brigade' trying to take Avdiivka
Russia renewed a push to encircle the embattled town in mid-October, trying to overwhelm Ukrainian positions with constant barrages of artillery and waves of troops and fighting vehicles, according to local and military authorities in Ukraine.
Russia's assault on key eastern Ukraine city is weakening, Kyiv claims, as the war marks 600 days
Ukrainian officials claim that Russian forces' attempt to capture the strategically important city of Avdiivka in eastern Ukraine is losing momentum. Ukrainian forces successfully repelled 15 Russian attacks in the past 24 hours, compared to up to 60 attacks a day last week. A Washington-based think tank supports this assessment, stating that Russian operations in the area have likely decreased.
Putin sees gains on Ukraine frontlines, including Avdiivka
Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that Russian forces have made gains in their offensive in Ukraine, particularly in the areas of Kupiansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Avdiivka. Avdiivka, a symbolic industrial hub, has been the center of intense fighting. Ukrainian forces reported that Russian forces have been continuously assaulting Avdiivka in an attempt to surround it.
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