KYIV - The eastern city of Avdiivka in Ukraine continues to face a withering assault from Russian forces, with reports indicating a critical and chaotic situation on the ground. The Ukrainian army, supported by local defenders, remains in control of Avdiivka despite Russian attempts to surround their forces, as confirmed by the Army General Staff.

Mayor Vitaly Barabash described the dire situation, stating that the enemy is pressing from all directions, leaving no part of the city calm. On Thursday, the Ukrainian open-source analytical project Deep State and soldiers on the ground echoed the critical and chaotic nature of the ongoing battle.

Attempts by Russian subversive groups to break into Avdiivka have been continuously repelled by the defending forces. However, the city's outskirts are occasionally breached, leading to urban battles and reminding observers of the exhausting nine-month battle for the city of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine.

While Bakhmut eventually fell to overwhelming Russian forces, Avdiivka's defenders are facing a different challenge. Russian troops are utilizing well-rested and trained professional soldiers who enter the city in small groups after heavy artillery bombardment.

Avdiivka has been on the frontlines since Russia's incursion into Ukraine in 2014. However, the Ukrainian troops currently stationed in the city are exhausted, understaffed, and facing severe shortages of shells and equipment. The Ukrainian government's struggle to pass a mobilization law to boost troop numbers, coupled with the political gridlock in Washington over aid to Ukraine, is exacerbating the situation.

As clashes continue in Avdiivka, including within urban areas and near the crucial railway bridge, Russian soldiers are making advances into residential areas. Street-by-street fighting is reported, reminiscent of the mistakes made during the battle for Bakhmut.

To stabilize the situation, the Ukrainian armed forces are constructing firing positions, establishing observation points, and deploying fresh units. Their goal is to prevent the enemy from cutting off the Avdiivka coke plant from the city, as well as to maintain the logistics artery.

The ongoing assault on Avdiivka highlights the grave situation faced by Ukrainian forces, as they struggle to defend the city against well-prepared and relentless Russian attacks. The importance of international support and aid becomes even more critical as Ukraine fights to protect its territorial integrity and the lives of its citizens in Avdiivka.