This footage purportedly shows Russian tank crews destroying a Ukrainian stronghold from behind concealed firing positions near Bakhmut.

The alleged assault was carried out by members of Russia's Southern Troop Group after receiving target coordinates from reconnaissance units.

The images were obtained from Russia's Ministry of Defence on February 15, along with a statement saying: 'Tank crews of the Southern Troop Group are on combat duty in the Bakhmut direction of the special military operation, striking UkrainianArmed Forces (UAF) targets from concealed firing positions.

'Upon receiving target coordinates, the combat vehicles leave cover and arrive at firing positions.

'Using the terrain to their advantage, tank crews conduct a series of shots and then rapidly move to the next fire control points.

'Employing a trajectory from above, tank crews hit identified targets at distances up to five kilometres [3.1 miles], delivering fire strikes on mortar positions, evacuation routes, and rotations of Ukrainian militants.

'Acting as artillery, tank crews support the actions of advanced groups, restricting the enemy's manoeuvrability and preventing them from returning fire.

'During the execution of combat tasks, tank crews of the 'Southern' group destroyed a UAF stronghold.'

Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, 2022, in what the Kremlin is still calling a 'special military operation'.