Territory west of Avdiivka remains the focal effort of Russia's offensive in eastern Ukraine, reported from the Intelligence Update by the British Defese Ministry.

"Russia took control of Avdiivka on February 17, 2024, and has since advanced approximately 6 km from the centre of the town," reads the update.

"Russia has almost certainly taken control of several villages in the area: Lastochkyne, Stepove and Sieverne. These tactical gains serve primarily to consolidate Russian positions around Avdiivka. Russia is also likely seeking to build momentum on the axis to take advantage of the fact that there are fewer fixed, well defended positions, and urban areas from which Ukrainian forces can defend."

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