Lack of defensive infrastructure in Avdiivka, trenches dug amid Russian army fire
Read NV on Google
The absence of defensive structures in the Avdiivka sector designated for Ukrainian troops to retreat to after withdrawing from the city was discussed by Censor.Net Editor-in-Chief YuriyButusov in an interview with NV Radio on Feb. 28.
“The withdrawal of our troops from Avdiivka is because it is the largest ridge of heights in the area, the optimal defensive position,” Butusov said.
“Given its strategic importance, including the Avdiivka Coke and Chemical Plant, this advantageous position has now fallen into enemy hands.”
“The villages of Stepove, Berdychi, Lastochkyne, and Orlivka, where the fights are ongoing, are all located in the lowlands. The defense of these lowlands is very difficult, tactically speaking, and not an advantageous situation for us. Especially considering that the primary factor influencing battlefield tactics are drones. Strategic advantages on the battlefield come from having strategic locations with suitable elevations for drone launches and well-built protective structures for drone operators, providing a decisive edge. The enemy uses this advantage.”
“Will they continue to advance? Undoubtedly. Could a more effective defense have been mounted? In theory, yes, but it required preparation. Unfortunately, no defensive lines were established in the named villages.”
“We need electronic warfare to counter drones, to undermine infantry; we need defensive structures shielded from drone surveillance, which could protect against 120 mm, 82 mm mortars, and from AGSs (automatic grenade launchers).”
“None of it is present. People, as witnessed, were left exposed in open fields. As if ten years spent in Avdiivka and all the assaults never happened. This is the third assault on Avdiivka, resulting in its capture by the enemy. The third assault lasted from Oct. 10, 2023.”
“Regrettably, throughout all these years of assaults, no rear positions were established behind Avdiivka, and no engineering work was undertaken.”
“Our soldiers — those who are sent there — themselves lay mines during battle. Holes, trenches — hastily dug under enemy fire. Of course, nothing substantial can be dug.”
“We suffer losses, losing skilled, motivated infantrymen, leaving the land undefended. Unfortunately, we have to surrender these villages.”
The military war may be swinging in our favor, but the information war continues.
Just as an army needs soldiers, so does a free society need its journalists to ensure that people have access to honest, trustworthy voices to understand the world around them.
For the past five years, The New Voice of Ukraine has been working tirelessly to push back against Russian narratives and defend democracy. But we cannot do it alone.
Please consider supporting us on Patreon for just $5 a month – your donation does directly to supporting journalists and ensuring that this front of the infowar says solid and defended.
Thank you.
Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Google News
