Russian forces have claimed control of a Soviet-era coke plant in Avdiivka, completing its takeover of the Ukrainian city after one of the most intense battles of the war.
The fall of Avdiivka is Russia's biggest gain since it captured the city of Bakhmut in May 2023, and comes almost two years to the day since President Vladimir Putin triggered a full-scale war by ordering the invasion of Ukraine.
Ukraine said it had withdrawn its soldiers to save troops from being fully surrounded after months of fierce fighting. According to Reuters, Putin hailed the fall of Avdiivka as an important victory and congratulated Russian troops.
Russia’s latest offensive has expanded the battlefield along the border, sending thousands of civilians fleeing to Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has nominated civilian economist Andrei Belousov as his new defense minister, replacing long-standing ally Sergei Shoigu.
Conflict imposes hidden tax on Western consumers and economies.
Disapproval of protests increases with age.
Public skepticism and economic hurdles are likely to derail lofty ambitions.
There’s no end in sight.
Accidents have increased in legal recreational marijuana states.
