Context: As the second anniversary of its invasion of Ukraine draws closer, Russia has registered a big victory, capturing the town of Avdiivka.

Avdiivka

• About: It is a city in Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine.
• Strategic Location: Avdiivka's position on the frontlines in eastern Ukraine made it a crucial center of resistance against Russian advancement.
• Heavily Fortified Defense: Since 2014, Avdiivka had been fortified extensively, making it a formidable barrier against Russian forces and blocking further incursion into Ukraine.
• Gateway for Russian Advance: Capturing Avdiivka provides Russia with an easier path to penetrate deeper into Ukrainian territory, as noted by The New York Times.
• Proximity to Donetsk: Avdiivka's proximity to Donetsk, a city already occupied by Russia, offers a dual advantage by extending Russian reach into more Ukrainian cities and securing Donetsk from Ukrainian attempts to reclaim it.
• Impact on Ukrainian Morale: The victory in Avdiivka is significant for its potential impact on the morale of Ukrainian soldiers, who have been enduring the grind of war with increasing losses over the past two years.

Industrial Significance of Avdiivka

• Coke Plant Dominance: Avdiivka is distinguished for hosting a significant coke plant, recognized as one of Europe's largest, contributing substantially to the region's industrial landscape.
• Economic Dependency: The economy of Avdiivka is deeply intertwined with the mining and metallurgical sectors, encompassing coal extraction and steel manufacturing, which serve as pivotal contributors to its economic vitality.