Russian air defense systems down Ukrainian fighter jet

However, the claims made by Russia cannot be independently confirmed, and Ukrainian officials have a history of refuting similar assertions.

Russia's air defense systems were credited with downing a Ukrainian Su-25 fighter jet, along with a staggering 213 drones and five French-made Hammer air bombs over the past 24 hours. These figures cannot be corroborated by independent sources, and previous claims of such high drone shootdowns have been met with skepticism from Western military analysts.

On the ground, Russia detailed advancements by several military groups.

Battlegroup Yug in southern Ukraine reportedly secured a stronger position along the front line while repelling Ukrainian attacks. The statement claimed the elimination of over 610 Ukrainian troops and the destruction of various military equipment.

West and Center groups operating in other areas supposedly improved their positions and inflicted casualties on Ukrainian forces. The Ministry reported eliminating roughly 380 Ukrainian soldiers and destroying multiple armored vehicles, including a Czech-made Dana self-propelled gun and D-20 howitzers.

Battlegroup Vostok in eastern Ukraine allegedly eliminated over 120 Ukrainian troops and destroyed US-made M777 howitzers alongside other equipment. The report also specified the destruction of ammunition depots and electronic warfare stations.

Ukrainian officials have consistently rejected similar claims of large-scale success by Russian forces throughout the war.  Independent verification of battlefield reports from either side is often difficult due to the fog of war.

The reports from the Russian Defense Ministry come amidst continued fighting in eastern Ukraine, with both sides sustaining significant casualties.  Military analysts are closely monitoring the situation for signs of a potential larger offensive by Russia in the Donbas region. (ILKHA)