The video purports to show Russian Air Force strikers carrying out attacks on Ukrainian targets during a special military operation.

The Russian Air Force strikers headed for a special combat mission with their Mi-35 and Mi-8 attack and rescue helicopters on Wednesday, December 20.

Russia's Defence Ministry said that the attacks were performed in the direction of Svatove-Kremennoe in the Luhansk Oblast, eastern Ukraine.

The ministry said in a statement: 'As a result of the mission, the Mi-35 attack helicopters applied aviation means of attack to enemy strongholds and live forces.

'According to the reconnaissance report, the targets were successfully hit.

'After completing the combat mission, the entire group returned to the home airfield.'

The crew commander explained: 'We were on duty when the command came to carry out search and rescue support as part of the search and rescue group and the fire cover group.

'We are on board the Mi-8, took off together with the strike group, completed the combat mission, and everything went according to plan.'

A parachute specialist added: 'Our immediate task is to provide cover for the flight crew of combat helicopters during the execution of combat missions. 'In case something happens, we are committed to bringing the pilot home by any means.'