UK intelligence says Ukrainian forces likely to partially drive Russian troops out of Stepove near Avdiivka − map

The Ukrainian Armed Forces have mounted successful local counterattacks during the fighting near the town of Avdiivka (Donetsk Oblast), UK intelligence has reported.

Source: UK Defence Intelligence review dated 11 December on Twitter, as reported by European Pravda

Quote: "Ukrainian units have likely conducted successful local counterattacks, denying Russian forces full control of the village of Stepove."

Details: This is reportedly where the Russians are attempting to launch one of their "pincer movement" attacks to encircle Avdiivka and its well-protected industrial area.

UK intelligence notes that Avdiivka has so far remained the scene of the most intense fighting on the contact line, with some days seeing around 40% of all combat activity in this small area.

"The Russian offensives have continued to be characterised by largely dismounted infantry assaults, often by Shtorm-Z penal units," the UK MoD stated.

Background:

• Earlier, the Estonian Defence Forces Intelligence Centre forecast that Russia would intensify its offensive against Ukraine in the next few weeks, regardless of the heavy losses it is suffering.
• In previous reviews, UK intelligence reported that a small advance near Avdiivka had cost the Russians huge losses.
• In a review in late November, UK Defence Intelligence noted that Russian occupying forces' casualties over a six-week period were the highest since they invaded Ukraine.

Support UP or become our patron!