The key facts

  • Russian Defense Ministry reported the destruction of an Italian Puma APC in the DPR
  • According to the ministry, the vehicle was supplied to Ukraine by Western partners
  • Iveco produced a maximum of 300 such APCs; their transfer to the Ukrainian Armed Forces took place without public statements

Defense Ministry Statement

The Russian Defense Ministry, in its daily report on its channel in the Max messenger, stated that the military destroyed an Italian Puma armored personnel carrier in the DPR, which had been supplied to Ukraine by Western partners. According to the ministry, the vehicle was hit by servicemen of the Southern troop group, who are fighting in the areas of Druzhkivka, Kramatorsk, Sloviansk and Vasylivska Pustosh. The report also says that Russian units improved their tactical position and struck formations of several Ukrainian brigades.

About the Vehicle and Its Transfer to Ukraine

The Defense Ministry describes the Puma as a relatively rare armored vehicle: the Italian concern Iveco produced a maximum of 300 such APCs. According to the ministry, this equipment was supplied to the Ukrainian Armed Forces covertly, without public statements about the transfer. However, in the summer of 2025, photographs of Italian armored personnel carriers in Ukrainian service appeared in the media and on social networks.

Puma Specifications

The Puma was developed for transporting personnel and gathering intelligence. The vehicle was produced in two versions — with 4×4 and 6×6 wheel configurations. It is distinguished by a relatively low weight and compact dimensions, achieved through thin armor: it can provide protection mainly against small arms and shrapnel.

Other Claims in the Report

In addition to the Puma, the Defense Ministry report mentions the destruction of an American HMMWV armored vehicle and 30 other vehicles. The ministry's information has not been independently confirmed; the Ukrainian side did not provide assessments of this episode in the publication.