Ukrainian forces have decided to withdraw from the "Zenit" position in Avdiivka, according to Oleksandr Tarnavsky, the commander of the operational-strategic troop grouping Tavria. He announced this on Telegram on February 16.
"After many months of confrontation, the command of the operational and strategic grouping of troops has decided to withdraw from the 'Zenit' position to the southeast outskirts of Avdiivka. We held this position for as long as it effectively allowed us to restrain and destroy the enemy", - the statement said.
It is noted that the decision to withdraw was made to preserve personnel and improve the operational situation. Tarnavsky emphasized, "Tactically occupying these positions does not provide the enemy with a strategic advantage and does not change the situation within the Avdiivka defensive operation".
According to him, there is currently a troop repositioning, replenishment of supplies, and organization of units in new positions. Planned reinforcements of units are underway.
As previously reported, russian army is using phosphorus shells in the battles for Avdiivka, causing the fuel oil tanks (mazut) at the coke and chemical plant to catch fire.