Ukraine could lose more cities if US delays aid

According to US President Joe Biden, if the US Congress does not approve additional aid to Kiev, the Ukrainian army may lose other cities after withdrawing from Avdiivka.

Responding to a reporter's question about whether he was sure Ukraine would not lose other cities after withdrawing from Avdiivka, President Joe Biden replied: " I'm not sure and no one can be sure. There's a lot at stake."

President Biden said it would be “absurd” and “unethical” to withhold support from Kiev when the Ukrainian military is running low on ammunition. “I will fight to get the ammunition they need,” Biden said, adding that he had promised President Volodymyr Zelensky he would seek additional funding for Ukraine.

At a global security conference, President Volodymyr Zelensky urged allies to address the country's current arms shortage. He stressed that continuing to send weapons and artillery to Ukraine is the most important support that allies can provide, while affirming that there is no alternative to US aid.

Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu reported to President Vladimir Putin on February 17 that the Russian central battle group had taken full control of Avdiivka. This town near Donetsk is the main stronghold of the Ukrainian army.

According to the Russian Defense Ministry, after this operation, an area of 31.75 square kilometers was controlled. Ukrainian losses in the battle for Avdiivka in the past 24 hours exceeded 1,500 soldiers. Russia's control of the town pushed the frontline further away from Donetsk.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said President Vladimir Putin congratulated the Russian army after taking control of the city of Avdiivka.

In the defense system in Donbass, the city of Avdiivka is very important. Avdiivka plays the role of a link in the defense chain of the southern Donetsk region, together with the Maryanka and Ugledar strongholds, creating a continuous chain of positions that completely blocks the western advance of the former Donbass militia and now the Russian army.

Kong Anh (Source: TASS)

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