Russia has claimed that its artillerymen destroyed a Ukrainian stronghold using a multiple rocket launcher.

The attack was allegedly carried out by units from Russia's Central Military District in the area of Avdiivka, in eastern Ukraine, on March 20.

They used a self-propelled 122-millimetre 'BM-21 Grad' multiple rocket launchers to execute the strike.

Russia's Ministry of Defence said: 'After receiving the coordinates of the target, the troops arrived at the combat deployment area and quickly deployed the combat vehicle from the travelling position to the combat one within minutes.

'Upon receiving the command to open fire, the troops fired a series of 122-millimetre high-explosive fragmentation projectiles at the target at a distance of over 10 kilometres [6.2 miles].

'Target damage assessment was conducted by reconnaissance troops using UAVs, transmitting real-time images to the forward command post.

'After completing the task, the unit promptly left the firing position.'

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

The conflict is still ongoing with public support from Europe and the United States fading and businesses reopening their ties with Russia.

Deserters have fled both countries for safer climbs in Europe and Asia.