Some AFU soldiers were taken prisoner during the withdrawal from Avdeevka - Tarnavskiy

During the withdrawal from Avdiyivka in Donetsk Region, "a certain number" of Ukrainian defenders fell into Russian captivity. This was stated by the commander of the Tavriya operational-strategic grouping of troops, Oleksandr Tarnavskyy.

The withdrawal of personnel from Avdeevka took place in accordance with the plan, developed taking into account various scenarios and possible changes in the operational situation. And yet, at the final stage of the operation, under the pressure of superior enemy forces, a certain number of Ukrainian servicemen were captured," he said.

The general did not name the exact number of prisoners and added that Ukraine would appeal to international organisations and intermediary countries to ensure humane treatment of the prisoners and return of the soldiers home.

In his turn, the deputy commander of the 3rd SShBr, Maksym Zhorin, said that the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops was continuing. According to him, the 3rd Assault Brigade managed to eliminate thousands of Russian troops and destroy a lot of equipment during its stay in Avdiivka. However, the main thing, in his opinion, is that the AFU managed to save the majority of its personnel.

As of today, the withdrawal operation continues. Withdrawal from Avdeevka was a correct and logical decision. But it is extremely difficult to implement," Zhorin said.

The occupation troops have been trying to "take" Avdiivka since autumn 2023. In February, the situation in this direction became critical. Ukrainian forces decided to withdraw from Avdeevka amid constant enemy attacks and superior enemy strength.

We shall remind you that in order to avoid encirclement and save the lives of the military, the Defence Forces commanders decided to withdraw units from Avdiivka and switch to defence at more advantageous borders.