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Avdiivka Residents Report Starvation Amid Intense Fighting

  //science-technology.news-articles.net/content/2 .. nts-report-starvation-amid-intense-fighting.html
  Published in Science and Technology on Wednesday, January 28th 2026 at 4:13 GMT by BBC
      Locales: UNITED KINGDOM, UKRAINE

Avdiivka, Ukraine - January 28th, 2026 - As the conflict in Ukraine stretches into its twelfth year, the frontline city of Avdiivka is once again bearing the brunt of intense fighting. Residents are reporting a dire humanitarian situation, alleging deliberate tactics by Russian forces to cut off supplies and effectively starve the remaining civilian population. The city, located in the Donetsk Oblast and situated perilously close to the Russian border, has been a flashpoint since 2014, but recent weeks have witnessed a significant escalation in hostilities.

Reports emerging from Avdiivka paint a grim picture. Oleksandr, a resident communicating via video shared online, stated starkly, "They are trying to starve us." This claim, echoed by other civilians like Viktoria, suggests a pattern of sustained shelling not simply targeting military positions, but demonstrably impacting access to essential resources - food, water, and medical supplies.

The strategic importance of Avdiivka cannot be overstated. Its proximity to the border makes it a key location for both sides, with Russia continually attempting to make territorial gains. However, these advancements are being achieved at a devastating cost to the civilian population caught in the crossfire. While independent verification of all claims remains challenging due to the ongoing combat, the consistent testimonies from residents highlight a rapidly deteriorating situation.

"Every day we are under fire," Viktoria explained, describing the unrelenting intensity of the attacks. "There are moments when it's so heavy, you can't even hear yourself." This constant bombardment forces civilians into basements and shelters, making even the most basic tasks - procuring food or water - incredibly dangerous.

The challenge for aid organizations is immense. The constant fighting severely hinders their ability to reach those in need. Delivery of vital supplies is hampered by the risks to personnel and the destruction of infrastructure. Logistical bottlenecks mean that even if aid could reach the city, distributing it safely and effectively is a monumental task. Reports indicate severely limited rations, forcing residents to meticulously conserve dwindling supplies.

This situation in Avdiivka isn't isolated. It represents a growing trend observed in other contested areas along the eastern front. Accusations of deliberately obstructing humanitarian access have been leveled against Russian forces previously, and if substantiated, would constitute a serious violation of international humanitarian law. The principle of distinction - ensuring attacks are directed solely at military objectives - is being called into question, as is the obligation to facilitate humanitarian assistance to civilians in need.

The long-term consequences of this sustained siege are profound. Beyond the immediate threat to life, the destruction of Avdiivka risks creating a new wave of internally displaced persons (IDPs), adding further strain to Ukraine's already overwhelmed social services. The psychological toll on those remaining is also significant, as they endure constant fear and uncertainty.

While international attention often focuses on larger strategic battles, it is crucial to remember the human cost of this conflict. The stories coming out of Avdiivka are a stark reminder of the suffering endured by ordinary Ukrainians, and a pressing call for increased humanitarian assistance and a renewed push for a peaceful resolution. The residents' plea, as articulated by Viktoria, is simple yet heartbreaking: "We're hoping for a miracle."