The Russian assault on Avdiivka has had a devastating impact on the town and its residents. The constant bombardment and air strikes have forced most people to flee, leaving only a small number of civilians remaining. Among them is Hanna, who desperately wants to escape but refuses to leave her elderly mother behind. The population of Avdiivka has shrunk drastically since the start of Russia’s invasion, and with the recent major offensive, the situation has become even more dire. The town is strategically important and lies right on the front line in eastern Ukraine, making it a crucial target for Russia. Taking control of Avdiivka would push the front line back and make it harder for Ukrainian forces to retake the territory.
Living conditions in Avdiivka are unbearable. Windows and doors are constantly broken due to the attacks, and basic necessities like water and wood for heating are scarce. Residents have to risk their lives just to go to the remaining shop in town, as there are no safe places to hide in case of an attack. The town’s infrastructure has been severely damaged, with shops and facilities being destroyed. Residents now rely on government-built help stations known as Points of Invincibility for food, warmth, power, and refuge. These facilities have become home for some of the residents, like Maryna, a nurse in her 40s who moved in after her own home was attacked. However, even in the relative safety of the basement, she lives in constant fear due to the nightly missile strikes.
Evacuating people from Avdiivka is a difficult and dangerous task. The White Angels, a special police unit, leads the evacuations, but they face challenges in persuading people to leave. The situation in the area has deteriorated significantly, with frequent attacks on the town and nearby villages. The attacks involve artillery, multiple rocket launchers, aviation bombs, and missiles targeting houses and places where people live. The fear and destruction have transformed Avdiivka from a once beautiful town with parks and boulevards into a devastated and war-torn area.
The impact of the assault goes beyond the physical damage to the town. The psychological toll on the residents is immense, with fear and sleepless nights becoming a part of their daily lives. Many have lost their homes and loved ones, and the hope of ever returning to a peaceful Avdiivka seems distant. The assault on Avdiivka is a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the toll it takes on innocent civilians. As the fighting continues, the international community must work towards finding a peaceful resolution and providing support to those affected by the war.
