Zelensky addresses Ukrainian troops' withdrawal from Avdiivka to protect soldiers' lives
Zelensky elaborated on the decision to withdraw from Avdiivka during the Munich Security Conference.
5:39 AM EST, February 17, 2024
"Our most important task is to protect our soldiers, our people," stated Zelensky on Saturday in Munich.
He further added that while weaponry certainly helps in the fight and is necessary, the main asset of the army is, indeed, the soldier.
On the night between Friday and Saturday, the command of the Ukrainian army confirmed the withdrawal of defending forces from Avdiivka.
"We're merely moving to new positions, not withdrawing huge distances. Moreover, this doesn't imply that Russia has taken control of anything," Zelensky pointed out, reminding that the Russians have been attacking Avdiivka since August and have lost a significant number of soldiers.
General Tarnavskyi: Ukrainian troops have left Avdiivka
"Ukrainian soldiers have left Avdiivka," announced Tauryda formation commander General Aleksandr Tarnavskyi on the night between Friday and Saturday via Telegram.
"In accordance with the order, we moved from Avdiivka to previously prepared positions," he added.
Earlier, the commander of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, General Aleksandr Syrsky, announced the withdrawal of troops from the heavily attacked city.
"When the enemy is willing to trample over the bodies of their fallen comrades and has a shell superiority of ten to one, in the face of continuous bombardment, withdrawal was the only right decision," wrote Tarnawski. He emphasized, however, that they ensured Avdiivka was not encircled by Russian units.
