On 30 July 2014, Ukrainian forces liberated Avdiivka in Donetsk Oblast for the first time. From then until 2024, the city remained one of Ukraine’s key strongholds in Donetsk Oblast. 

In April 2014, pro-Russian militants seized Avdiivka for the first time. The city was of major strategic importance, as it is located close to Donetsk, and control over it made it possible to control key logistical routes. The operation to liberate the city began on 28 July 2014. The 93rd Brigade and fighters of the Right Sector took an active part in the fighting. On 30 July, Ukrainian authority was fully restored.

Memories of servicemen from 2014:

"The operation to liberate Avdiivka was extremely important for us. We understood that the city was strategically significant and that much depended on who controlled it. When we launched the counteroffensive, we met strong resistance. But our motivation and the support of local residents gave us strength. I remember how, on the evening of 29 July, we entered the city and the locals welcomed us. It was a real boost to morale. But joy turned into horror when we found torture sites where the militants had held and tortured people," — Oleksandr, a serviceman of the 93rd Separate Mechanised Brigade

From that time onwards, Avdiivka became an important military position. Between 2015 and 2022, militants made several unsuccessful attempts to capture the city. With the start of the full-scale invasion, Avdiivka once again became one of the enemy’s main targets. In total, the defence of the city lasted almost 3,500 days, including more than 700 days after the beginning of the full-scale invasion. 

In January 2024, Russian forces began heavily bombing the city. In the first 12 days alone, they dropped 154 aerial bombs. The Russians attempted to encircle the city and seize the Avdiivka Coke and Chemical Plant, which had become a fortified position for Ukrainian troops. After heavy fighting, on 17 February, Ukrainian forces withdrew to new positions in order to preserve the lives of their soldiers.

Memories of servicemen from 2023:

Vasyl, a unit commander: "With the beginning of the full-scale invasion in 2022, Avdiivka became one of the enemy’s main targets. Russian forces constantly tried to encircle the city. We held the defence for almost two years. There were days when the fighting was so intense that it seemed we would not hold out. But we knew that we were defending an important stronghold, and we could not surrender. Every loss was painful, but we fought to the end."

Andrii, an artilleryman: "The Avdiivka Coke and Chemical Plant became our stronghold in the north of the city. We knew that the Russians wanted to destroy it because it was important for our defence. When they began shelling the city with aerial bombs, it was absolute hell. The number of explosions was unbelievable. We worked without pause, trying to defend the city and our people. Eventually, when it became clear that further defence would be impossible without heavy losses, we received the order to withdraw. It was a difficult decision, but we knew it was necessary to save the lives of our soldiers."

These memories reflect the courage and dedication of Ukrainian servicemen who fought for Avdiivka over many years, defending their land and their people.

Avdiivka is not merely a city, but a symbol of unbreakable courage and bravery. Over the course of a decade, from 2014 to the present day, its defence became an example of the resilience and self-sacrifice of Ukrainian servicemen. Despite brutal trials and constant pressure from the enemy, the defenders of Avdiivka showed extraordinary courage and dedication. Their struggle and sacrifice demonstrate true strength of spirit, which remains an inexhaustible source of inspiration for us all. Every day of defence was a step towards victory; every sacrifice was a step towards freedom. These memories serve as a reminder that even in the darkest times, hope and determination can lead us towards the light. We believe that the courage of these people will continue to inspire us in the fight for freedom and justice.