Russia has achieved a strategic and symbolic win with the capture of Avdiivka, bolstering its defense of the regional capital Donetsk and possibly creating opportunities for additional offensives against Ukrainian-held territory. Oleksandr Syrskyi, the chief commander of Ukraine, claims he gave the order to withdraw from the city in order to preserve the lives of the men.
Is Ukraine’s situation changing due to Russia?
Relatives of six soldiers who were discovered dead after the city was taken over claim that their loved ones were put to death after they surrendered, which may be evidence of war crimes. Authorities in Ukraine are looking into it. Moscow has not yet provided a statement.
Soldiers from Ukraine who withdrew from Avdiivka spoke with the BBC. Their evidence presents an image of apathetic commanders who, when their troops were surrounded by Russian forces, ignored their cries for help to evacuate.
They claim that by the time the order was sent, it was too late and they were encircled.
