Ukraine has announced a partial withdrawal of troops from the eastern city of Avdivka. It is also reported that these troops will be deployed in a more advantageous position in the ongoing fight against the Russian army.

Ukrainian army spokesman Dmytro Likhovy made the announcement on Thursday. British news agency Reuters reported this news.

Dmytro Likhovy said in a televised speech that Ukraine has activated alternative equipment routes in Avdivka. But it is difficult to send supplies to the city and withdraw troops from there.

After failing to capture the Ukrainian capital Kiev early in the February 2022 all-out offensive, Russia focused on the eastern part of the country. Since mid-October last year, Moscow's troops have intensified operations to capture Avdivka.

Likhovi said the transfer of troops to Abdivka is ongoing. Troops are being sent to convenient locations in a few places. At some places Russian troops have forced us to change positions.

He also said that it has become difficult to send supplies and evacuate troops from Abdivka. Pre-arranged alternative supply routes are working.

Avdivka has become a symbol of Ukrainian resistance. Pro-Russian separatists seized the city for a few days in 2014. But later Ukrainian troops recaptured it and built defenses.

Ukrainian forces consider Avdivka a gateway to future progress in retaking eastern territory. 20 kilometers away from the city is Russian-controlled Donetsk.

According to Ukrainian analysts, taking the city through a protracted Russian campaign would not yield much. Russian forces have already suffered heavy losses.