Russia has said that its soldiers destroyed Ukrainian military positions using ‘BM-21 Grad’ rocket launchers in the Kherson Region.
Video footage obtained by Newsflash purports to show one of the ‘Grad’ multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) manoeuvring into position before firing it into the sky at unseen targets.
The images were obtained from the Russian Ministry of Defence on Friday, 12th January, along with a statement saying: “Artillerymen of the ‘West’ group of forces carry out precise strikes around the clock on military targets, positions, fortifications and manpower of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the zone of a special military operation.
“During combat missions, artillery crews also destroy identified camouflaged artillery firing positions, storage sites for enemy ammunition and fuel and lubricants, remote from the contact line.
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“This time, the Grad MLRS crews in the Kupiansk direction delivered a night strike against identified camouflaged fortified positions and concentrations of Ukrainian Armed Forces personnel.
“Multiple launch rocket systems quickly took up positions and struck area targets.”
A senior battery officer with the call sign ‘Metiz’ added: “We constantly carry out combat missions both day and night.
“We mainly destroy the enemy’s hidden infantry and armoured vehicles.
“Commanders constantly conduct training with personnel. Therefore, after receiving the coordinates, we open fire on targets within a few minutes.
“Today the crew carried out two fire missions. We were working against hidden infantry.”
We have not been able to independently verify the claims or the footage.
Russia invaded Ukraine on 24th February 2022 in what the Kremlin is still calling a “special military operation.” Today marks the 688th day of the full-scale war.
The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that between 24th February 2022 and 12th January 2024, Russia had lost approximately 368,460 personnel, 6,060 tanks, 11,254 armoured combat vehicles, 8,710 artillery units, 957 multiple launch rocket systems, 642 air defence systems, 329 warplanes, 324 helicopters, 6,836 drones, 1,806 cruise missiles, 23 warships, 1 submarine, 11,612 motor vehicles and fuel tankers, and 1,339 units of special equipment.
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The US imposed sanctions targeting Russian entities and one individual aiding the transfer of North Korea’s ballistic missiles for potential use against Ukraine.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed concern, linking it to Russia’s aggression, worsening Ukrainian suffering, and undermining global nonproliferation efforts.
Russian presidential candidate Boris Nadezhdin, a critic of the Ukraine war, met with soldiers’ wives seeking frontline discharge. Nadezhdin, aiming to challenge Putin in the March vote, is seeking to gather signatures for his presidential bid.
The 60-year-old presidential hopeful labelled Putin’s war as a “big mistake” during the meeting with soldiers’ wives, emphasising the grave consequences.
Despite Putin’s expected re-election certainty, Nadezhdin advocates for soldiers’ return.
EU’s industrial chief, Thierry Breton, aims for a EUR 3 billion scheme to boost defence equipment production, citing concerns about Russia.
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Emphasising preparation for all eventualities, he said he plans to enhance production in Europe, starting with ammunition and expanding to various equipment. A public announcement is expected by the end of February.
Breton suggests a EUR 100 billion European defence fund, a decision for the next European Commission, set to be appointed later this year.
Ukrainian President Zelenskiy expressed gratitude for the delivered Patriot air defence systems during his Baltic tour but requested additional shipments. Highlighting their crucial role in surviving attacks.
Zelenskiy questioned the ability to live peacefully without an adequate number of these systems during a press conference in Riga, Latvia.
Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics announced a new aid package. Confirming the delivery of artillery shells, anti-aircraft weapons, grenades, and drones to Ukraine this year.
Ukraine’s parliament rejected a bill proposing increased soldier drafting, citing concerns about violations of human rights.
Ruling party leader David Arakhamia stated the decision follows a closed-door meeting with Ukraine’s military leaders.
Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov stated that Russia’s Belgorod region, bordering Ukraine, is facing challenges due to recent shelling.
The Kremlin accused the US of pressuring European countries to support seizing frozen Russian assets abroad for financing Ukraine’s rebuilding, a concept gaining momentum.
Ukraine’s National Union of Journalists condemned Russian missile strikes on a Kharkiv hotel as an attempt to intimidate media workers and restrict war coverage.
Thirteen people, including foreign journalists, were injured in the attack.
