Steppe - Gray Zone: The ISW evaluated the promotion of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation in the Avdiivka area (map)

According to experts, the Russian military recently confirmed their advance to the northwest of Avdiivka. From the published geolocation, dated December 31, it follows that the Russian military truly advanced to the northwest of the settlement of Steppe, in the north of Avdiivka.

In addition, analysts stated that the Russian military blogger stated that in the period from January 1 to January 2, the troops of the Russian Federation advanced northwest of Avdiivka in the direction of Berdychi and Ocheretin. Meanwhile, Ukrainian military expert Konstantin Mashovets declared on January 2 that the Russian troops initially moved towards Berdicha, but then retreated. Mashovets stated on January 2 that the steppe was a controversial gray zone.

He also noted that the units of the 15th and 21st Rifle Brigades (both 2 AK, the Central Military District of the Russian Federation) and the 114th Motorized Rifle Brigade (1st Army Corps "DNR) operate to the north and northwest of Avdiivka. , and to the northeast of Avdiivka, units of the 239th Tank Regiment (90th Tank Division, 41st AK, CVO of the Russian Federation) are concentrated.

Also in the report with reference to Ukrainian and Russian sources stated that intense fighting continues northwest of Avdiivka, in the Novobakhmutivka, Berdicha, near the Avdiivsky Coke Classchemical Plant, as well as southeast of Avdiivka near the industrial zone and south -west from Avdiivka. Near the settlements of Pervomaisko and Nevel. Recall that the armed forces of the Russian Federation are trying to surround Avdiivka.

The city is of political importance to the enemy because of its proximity to Donetsk, told in British intelligence. The local coke holds a key tactical position north of the city. It is the main on the road to Avdiivka, if the invaders were controlled, it would become more difficult for the Ukrainian military to supply weapons to the city.