Russia has said that it is using BTR-82A armoured personnel carriers to destroy Ukrainian firing points, as these images purport to show.
The footage shows Russian soldiers loading ammunition into the BTR-82A armoured personnel carriers.
Then, they are seen repeatedly opening fire at unseen targets.
The images were obtained by Newsflash from the Russian Ministry of Defence on Thursday, 4th January, along with a statement saying: “BTR-82A armoured personnel carriers of the Southern Group of Forces carry out missions to destroy firing points and support with fire the offensive actions of assault groups in the Bakhmut direction.
“The crews of armoured personnel carriers confidently operate on the battlefield, suppressing firing points and strongholds of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the face of the enemy’s use of anti-tank weapons.
“After receiving a combat mission, the crews of armoured personnel carriers of the Southern Military District secretly advance to the opening lines of fire, using the effect of surprise to suppress firing points and change positions, using the terrain and natural cover.
Ukrainian Forces Destroy Two Russian Armoured Personnel Carriers
“When suppressing enemy fire, Russian military personnel fire at the enemy from the rapid-fire guns of armoured personnel carriers on the move, which significantly increases the survivability of equipment on the battlefield.”
The commander of the BTR-82A crew, code-named Valdai, added: “We’re going into a brazen situation, the guys are covering us. Two cars are covered, and in addition, there is a small arms cover.
“We also have our own positions – they are starting to cover. The raid on the positions of the Ukrainian Armed Forces begins – we go into their defensive positions in a brazen manner…
“The infantry dismounts from the armoured personnel carrier, from the MTLB and begins to fight.
“The battle begins – the Ukrainian Armed Forces begin to retreat and run away in horror. They are afraid of small arms combat.”
We have not been able to independently verify the claims or the footage.
Ukrainian Artillery Takes Out Russian Armoured Personnel Carrier
Russia invaded Ukraine on 24th February 2022 in what the Kremlin is still calling a “special military operation.” Today marks the 680th day of the full-scale war.
The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that between 24th February 2022 and 4th January 2024. Russia had lost approximately 362,280 personnel, 6,002 tanks, 11,128 armoured combat vehicles, 8,574 artillery units, 947 multiple launch rocket systems, 630 air defence systems, 329 warplanes, 324 helicopters, 6,753 drones, 1,785 cruise missiles, 23 warships, 1 submarine, 11,423 motor vehicles and fuel tankers, and 1,304 units of special equipment.
Ukraine and Russia conducted the largest prisoner exchange since the war’s onset, mediated by the UAE.
Ukrainian President Zelenskiy announces the return of 230 individuals, including soldiers from Mariupol.
Russia has confirmed that 248 prisoners were released.
The exchange marks a significant development amid the 22-month-long conflict, with previous swaps becoming less frequent.
Over 2,500 Ukrainians have been freed in exchanges since Russia’s full-scale invasion.
Poland’s foreign minister, Radoslaw Sikorski, urged allies to provide long-range missiles to Ukraine in response to recent deadly Russian missile strikes on Kyiv and Kharkiv.
Ukrainian Forces Take Out Russian Armoured Personnel Carrier And Its Crew
Sikorski emphasised the need to target “launch sites and command centres.” Poland, a staunch ally of Ukraine, advocated for a response that speaks to Putin’s understanding and suggested tightening Western sanctions on Moscow to hinder weapon production.
Sikorski, in his pro-EU government role, emphasised mobilising the economy to support Ukraine during his first visit abroad.
Ukraine launched 12 missiles and multiple drones early Wednesday targeting Russia’s southern region of Belgorod, as confirmed by Russia’s Defence Ministry and local authorities.
The EU imposed sanctions on Russia’s state-run diamond company, Alrosa, and its CEO, as part of a broader ban on importing precious stones in response to the conflict in Ukraine.
Norway will dispatch two F-16 fighter jets to Denmark to assist in training Ukrainian pilots on the operation of US-made aircraft, as announced by the Norwegian defence minister.
Ukraine’s foreign minister, Dmytro Kuleba, called for expedited delivery of air defence systems, combat drones, and long-range missiles.
In response to a recent Russian strike, Kuleba urged Western partners to accelerate the provision of these critical military assets. Including long-range missiles with a range exceeding 300 km.
