The Pentagon says Russian reports that forces invading Ukraine have destroyed six US HIMARS missile systems since the start of the war are false, Reuters reports.

According to Interfax, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Tuesday that Russia had destroyed several HIMARS missile systems after Moscow deployed tens of thousands of troops to Ukraine on February 24.

“We are aware of these latest statements by Secretary Shoigu, which are again patently false,” said Todd Brissil, a Pentagon spokesman.

“What is happening, however, is that the Ukrainians are using with devastating precision and effectiveness every missile system, fully tested for accuracy, that the US and its allies and partners have provided to defend against a criminal and brutal invasion of Russia.” added Bressil.

Shoigu brags about other destructions

Russia regularly claims it has destroyed HIMARS, but has yet to provide any evidence.

Minister Serhii Shoigu also said Russia also destroyed five Harpoon anti-ship missile launchers and 33 M777 howitzers after deploying tens of thousands of troops to Ukraine.

Reuters could not verify the authenticity of this information.

Ukrainian officials have said they are using up to 12 HIMARS systems, whose accuracy and long range have allowed Kyiv to reduce the superiority of Russian artillery. (Agerpress)

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