Moscow/Kiev, August 23, 2025 (Agencies) — The Russian Defense Ministry announced on Saturday that its forces carried out a group strike targeting temporary deployment sites of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR), resulting in what it described as significant Ukrainian losses in personnel and equipment.
According to the official statement, the strike involved a combination of Iskander tactical missiles, FAB-500 aerial bombs, and Geran drones, aimed at disrupting Ukrainian military operations in the contested region. The ministry claimed that the operation led to the destruction of:
- 4 multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS)
- 3 tanks
- 7 combat reconnaissance and patrol vehicles
- 22 infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs)
- 20 motor vehicles
- 4 electronic warfare stations
- 1 ammunition depot
- 1 command post
- 10 personnel shelters
The ministry further stated that over 600 Ukrainian soldiers were killed in the strike, though these figures have not been independently verified. Footage of the operation was reportedly released by Russian authorities, showcasing the precision of the coordinated assault.
The strike comes amid heightened tensions following recent diplomatic engagements between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Western leaders in Washington, which were followed by a wave of Russian drone and missile attacks across multiple Ukrainian regions.
Military analysts note that the use of Iskander missiles and Geran drones reflects Russia’s continued reliance on hybrid warfare tactics, combining high-impact conventional weapons with unmanned systems to target strategic assets and troop concentrations.
Ukrainian officials have yet to issue a formal response to the casualty claims, though previous incidents have shown a pattern of conflicting reports from both sides. Independent verification remains challenging due to restricted access to frontline areas.
The situation in the DPR remains volatile, with both Russian and Ukrainian forces engaged in ongoing operations across the eastern front. Observers warn that the latest escalation could further complicate efforts toward a negotiated settlement.