The enemy's offensive on Avdiivka in the Donetsk oblast is the most extensive since 2014. Currently, there has been a noticeable reduction in shelling and russian assault actions. However, a new escalation is expected in the coming days. This was stated by the head of the Avdiivka City Military Administration, Vitalii Barabash, on a national Ukrainian tv news marathon on October 18.
"I can say with certainty that this is the most extensive offensive that has occurred in Avdiivka throughout this entire war, starting from 2014", - he stated.
According to Barabash, the situation within the community's territory is somewhat calmer at the moment, with fewer shelling incidents, rocket strikes, and assaults.
"However, it is not getting quieter at the positions. Shelling and small-arms fire continue around the clock. Things are very hot at the front lines", - he added.
Barabash noted that the decrease in enemy attack intensity suggests that the occupiers are "wearing out", and the Ukrainian Defense Forces have stabilized the situation on the front.
"But this is not the end of the story. The enemy is regrouping. For three consecutive nights, they have been withdrawing the equipment they can to the rear for repair. Most likely, in the coming days, we expect this escalation on our front", - Barabash stated.
Earlier, Barabash announced that russia plans to occupy the entire Donetsk oblast by the end of the year.