Ukraine: Avdiivka assault is Russia's 'most significant offensive operation since January'

The Russian assault on Avdiivka is Moscow's "most significant offensive operation" in Ukraine since at least January, according to UK intelligence. 

According to a Ministry of Defence (MOD) intelligence update, Russia is thought to be co-ordinating an offensive across multiple axes in the east of Ukraine.

"Russian forces in Donetsk are conducting a combined arms offensive on the heavily defended town of Avdiivka, which has been on the frontline since 2014."

• UK evolves its ammo supply tactics based on lessons learned from Ukraine
• Why is Germany reluctant to give Taurus missiles to Ukraine?
• Russia likely to have relocated 'prestige assets' of Black Sea Fleet – UK MOD

The MOD issued an intelligence update which said: "The town is a major obstacle in preventing Russian forces from their wider objective of taking control of Donetsk Oblast.

"Russia's attack is likely being carried out with multiple armoured battalions, which are attempting to envelop the town.

"Entrenched Ukrainian forces have so far likely held back the Russian advance, with the latter sustaining heavy equipment and personnel losses."

The town of Avdiivka is also home to the largest chemical plant in Europe and has been under attack since January 2023.

It is estimated that up to 8,000 Russian troops have been deployed to take the city.

The area is also very heavily defended by Ukrainian troops who are determined to hold the area.