"The Battle for Avdiivka: Ukraine's Critical Stand Against Russian Troops"

Russian troops are intensifying efforts to capture the frontline town of Avdiivka in eastern Ukraine, according to the town's mayor. The ongoing fighting is described as "very hot" and "very difficult," with fewer than 950 people remaining in the town out of an estimated pre-war population of around 33,000. The capture of Avdiivka would be a significant victory for Moscow ahead of the second anniversary of its invasion and for Russian President Vladimir Putin as he seeks re-election in March.