AFU maintaining control over Avdiivka, hostilities affect central part of Marinka – Maliar

The relevant statement was made by Ukrainian Defense Deputy Minister Hanna Maliar on Telegram, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

“Fierce battles are raging there now. The enemy is aiming to take control of Avdiivka and Marinka. The enemy has focused its main efforts on the Avdiivka direction, and is trying to capture the city. But, our warriors are firmly holding defense and maintaining control over Avdiivka,” Maliar wrote.

In her words, Russian troops managed to advance into the city of Marinka. Hostilities were raging in its central part, but the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) made the enemy’s task more complicated.

“Having faced strong resistance in the city, the enemy directed its efforts to the flanks around the city, in the north and in the south. The enemy is suffering significant losses in these directions, both in terms of personnel and military equipment, but does not stop,” Maliar added.

Earlier, Maliar also updated on the situation in the Bakhmut direction. In her words, the advancement of Ukrainian forces has somewhat slowed down on the outskirts of Bakhmut. Russian invaders have expanded their ranks and are trying to take advantage in terms of heavy artillery and the number of shells. Nevertheless, according to Maliar, Russians are unable to re-capture their lost positions, and Ukrainian forces are repelling all enemy attacks in this direction.

Photo: Kostiantyn Liberov