Zelensky Visits Frontline Positions in Avdiivka

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited troops in the frontline city of Avdiivka in Ukraine’s Donetsk Oblast, according to footage posted on Tuesday, April 18.

The devastated city has become a focal point of the war in Donetsk Oblast, as Russian forces try to revive their military campaign in the east.

Zelensky spoke with the servicemen of the marines, airborne assault, mechanized and artillery units, thanked them for their service, and awarded medals, according to the Ukrainian President’s Office.

This footage of Zelensky’s visit was released as Russian President Vladimir Putin visited military headquarters in the occupied Kherson and Luhansk regions of Ukraine, according to the Kremlin.

The UK Ministry of Defence said on April 18 that Russia is reducing its troop numbers and decreasing offensive action around Donetsk city, near Avdiivka, “most likely to divert resources toward the Bakhmut sector.”

“Heavy fighting has continued along the Donbas front line,” the UK Ministry of Defence added. Credit: Volodymyr Zelensky via Storyful