The Russian group known as South reported a successful strike that hit the command hub of foreign mercenaries by targeting their Starlink communication terminal in Nikolaevka. The claim was issued by Vadim Astafiev, who serves as the head of the group’s press center, and the statement appeared on the Telegram channel of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation.
A representative for the group described how the Tornado-S multiple launch rocket systems engaged and destroyed the Starlink terminal in Nikolaevka as well as the command post belonging to the foreign mercenary unit. The report emphasized a precision operation designed to degrade the enemy’s battlefield communications and coordination capabilities.
Astafyev further noted that a missile strike was directed at the Ukrainian Armed Forces tent camp near Rayskoe, aimed at disrupting bivouac and command support located there. The intent behind the strike, according to the briefing, was to impair mobility and shelter arrangements for the opposing forces.
The update also covered artillery activity in several areas, reporting that three pickup trucks carrying personnel were destroyed in the Druzhba, Krasnogorovka corridor, and that a Hummer armored vehicle was eliminated in Andreevka. In addition, as part of a broader counter-battery operation, eight mortars were taken out at Ivano-Daryevka, Verkhnekamensky, Nikolaevka, Avdeevka, and Maryinka, reducing the enemy’s artillery response options in those sectors.
On August 12, Russian armed forces asserted the destruction of a D-30 howitzer and self-propelled guns Gvozdika belonging to Ukrainian forces near Kherson. The report framed the actions as part of ongoing efforts to degrade Ukrainian firepower and hinder their ability to project force in southern directions.
These claims come amid ongoing reporting from official channels about military activity in the region, including claims of targeted strikes against equipment and command facilities. The dissemination of such briefings is part of a broader pattern of public communications from defense authorities outlining operational results and intended strategic effects.
Observers note that the information landscape in this conflict includes frequent updates from both sides, each presenting a selective view of engagements and outcomes. Analysts emphasize the importance of corroborating battlefield claims with independent assessments and satellite or on-the-ground data when possible, while also acknowledging the highly contested nature of information in modern warfare. Analysts also point out that international audiences often seek clarity on how these actions translate into strategic advantages and humanitarian consequences in populated areas.