Capture of Avdiivka is main priority for Russian army - British intelligence

The UK's Defense Ministry said this in an intelligence update on Ukraine published on the X social media platform, Ukrinform reports.

The ministry mentioned the seizure by Russian troops of the hamlets of Krokhmalne in the Kharkiv region and the village of Vesele near Bakhmut, but noted that they were strategically insignificant.

"Vesele had a pre-war population of 102, and Krokhmalne, 45. This represents a continuation of Russia's minor incremental gains, whilst Ukraine focuses on active defense," the update said.

According to British analysts, the main priority for the Russian army is the city of Avdiivka. The Russians are mounting a three-pronged attack to encircle the city from the south and north, and also fighting on the outskirts of the eastern quarter of Avdiivka city itself.

Russian troops are reportedly trying to bypass Ukrainian fortifications by entering the city edges via service tunnels. This is a method of infiltration they have been attempting since October 2023, the update said.

However, according to British intelligence, Ukrainian counterattacks are holding Russia from progressing further within the city. Russian forces have suffered heavy personnel and armored vehicle losses, frequently caused by Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicle munitions.

"As the main supply route remains intact, and Ukrainian forces make local counterattacks, Avdiivka is likely to remain in Ukrainian control over the coming weeks," experts said.