MOSCOW, February 21. /TASS/. The operation on liberation of Avdeyevka was a difficult mission, but the Russian forces have completed it successfully, Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev said in an interview for Russian media.

"You have probably noticed, because the fortified area that has been created in the Avdeyevka area, was created over the course of more than two years. These are some really serious fortifications, and they made it possible to hold on to this settlement," he underscored. "This was a difficult mission, but our Armed Forces have completed it with flying colors.".

The politician noted that an analysis of events was provided during the February 20 meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu.

"This is, undoubtedly, a major success of the Russian forces. Everyone who took part in this operation are heroes," the official underscored, adding that "it is necessary to say it straight."

"It is not [Ukrainian armed forces Commander-in-chief Alexander] Syrsky and the likes of him, it is our valiant armed forces, who got concentrated, who were preparing for a long time, and who made this breakthrough. I would like to congratulate everyone with this event once again," Medvdev said, referring to those who call Alexander Syrsky responsible for the Ukrainian failure in Avdeyevka.

On February 17, Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu reported to Vladimir Putin that Russian forces have taken full control over Avdeyevka. The Russian Defense Ministry underscored that the Ukrainian retreat was chaotic. Avdeyevka is located West of Yasinovataya, Ukrainian forces used it to shell nearby Donetsk and Makeyevka. According to the Defense Ministry, the Russian forces continue offensive actions on DPR territory.