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Russia claims to have killed a thousand Ukrainian soldiers and dozens of tanks in a day. Photos/Illustrations
MOSCOW – Ministry of Defense Russia in its update it reports that troop Ukraine had lost up to 1,240 troops and 39 tanks during one 24 hour period. Moscow’s claim adds to the heavy losses suffered by Kiev during the week it is believed to have launched a retaliatory strike against Russia.
The Russian ministry added that 30 infantry fighting vehicles, 38 armored vehicles, as well as a dozen artillery pieces and other military hardware, some of which were provided by Kiev’s Western sponsors, were also destroyed.
“Two Ukrainian military jets, two UK-supplied Storm Shadow cruise missiles and 13 drones were intercepted and destroyed over one day,” the report added.
Russian and Western media have concluded that Ukraine has launched a major offensive against its rivals this week, trying to take advantage of the treasure trove of weapons supplied by the United States (US) and its allies. However, Ukrainian officials have offered conflicting reports about whether the operation had started.
Supporters of Ukraine expressed hope that Kiev could gain a significant territorial advantage by deploying Western-produced main battle tanks, which it did not previously have.
The Russian military reported repelling a string of Ukrainian attacks this week and said Kiev was paying a heavy price for investigating Russian defenses on various parts of the front line.
Western countries have pledged to support Kiev for as long as necessary to inflict a “strategic defeat” on Russia. But media reports suggest that the scale of future military assistance will depend on whether Ukrainian forces deliver success on the battlefield.
“The White House is anxiously watching this action, because President Joe Biden’s reputation is at stake in it,” Politico said of the Ukraine operation.
(ian)
