Russian forces are tightening their grip around the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka, which has been under heavy bombardment since mid-October, Reuters reports.
Ukrainian military officials report that Russian troops are massing on three sides of the city, deploying around 40,000 men. Local officials said the Russians were preparing a “third wave” of assaults after a week of heavy rain.
Ukrainian forces are reportedly holding defensive lines, with Avdiivka serving as a symbol of Ukrainian resistance. The city is considered a gateway for potential advances to recapture territory in the east, including the large Russian-held town of Donetsk 20 km away.
