Russian forces have reportedly made significant advances in the Avdiivka region of eastern Ukraine, threatening to encircle Ukrainian troops. Business Insider reports that Russia has been intensifying its offensive in the area, employing waves of troops, tanks, and munitions. Geolocated footage has shown Russian soldiers celebrating their gains, including the alleged control of a waste yard north of Avdiivka where a Ukrainian drone captured the explosion of a flag it struck.

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) has confirmed the advancements through geolocated footage, stating that Russian forces claim control over the Avdiivka waste heap. However, Ukrainian Avdiivka City Military Administration Head Vitaly Barabash has disputed these claims, stating that the area remains contested. The fighting in the region has intensified, with reports of Russian assault units advancing along the railway track and attempting to expand their controlled corridor to regroup in a northern Coke plant.

The Russian military's tactics in Avdiivka have come at a heavy cost, with reports suggesting they are employing "human wave tactics" by sending poorly trained and ill-equipped soldiers in frontal attacks. While Russia has suffered high casualties, they have also lost significant assets, including dozens of tanks and armored vehicles in the initial assault. Ukrainian military footage claims to show the destruction of Russian tanks and armor, thanks to the use of FPV drones, Javelin anti-tank guided missiles provided by the US, and mortars.

Despite losses, Russia appears determined to continue its offensive in Avdiivka. Experts believe that Russia sees the region as essential to conquer, given their lack of significant battlefield victories this year. This determination is evident in their regrouping and launching second waves of attacks, even in the face of previous failures.

The situation in Avdiivka has put Ukrainian defenders at a serious risk of being cut off, a similar fate to the battle for Bakhmut earlier this year. As Russian forces continue to absorb losses, they pose a growing threat to the Ukrainian troops in the area. Experts and journalists have emphasized the need for Ukraine to direct its full attention to Avdiivka due to the significant threat posed by the advancing Russian forces.

The developments in Avdiivka highlight the escalating conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The international community will be closely monitoring the situation as tensions continue to rise in the region.

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