How Many Russian Soldiers Have Died Since the Ukraine War Started?
Since the beginning of the Ukraine War in February 2022, the number of Russian soldiers killed or permanently maimed has reached an alarming 498,000. If Russia does not reduce its military presence in Ukraine, this number is expected to exceed 500,000 by nightfall.
Reliable Statistics and Estimates
According to mediazona with the BBC Russian service, the most reliable count is approximately 50,000 Russian soldiers killed in action (KIA). This figure, however, does not account for the numerous injured and wounded.
US intelligence reports suggest that Russia has suffered at least 340,000 casualties, with an estimated 70,000 killed outright. These numbers may be conservative estimates, but they indicate a significant toll on Russia's military forces.
Ukrainian Forces' Casualty Statistics
Ukrainian armed forces are inflicting around 1,000 Russian soldiers daily through their combat operations. By the 2-year anniversary of the Russian invasion on February 24, 2024, the total number of Russian casualties is likely to surpass 400,000.
The staggering scale of these losses has led to a movement known as "The Way Home," which unites wives and mothers of mobilized Russian soldiers. They are deeply discontented with the ongoing losses and advocate for a return of their loved ones.
Controversial Casualties and Ethical Concerns
Russian independent media outlet Mediazona has confirmed the deaths of 42,284 Russian soldiers, including over 3,000 officers. This number is likely an understatement as Mediazona discovers the names of fallen soldiers through open sources such as local press and social media announcements by officials.
It is worth noting that these casualty figures do not include losses from soldiers mobilized in the occupied regions of Ukraine, specifically Donetsk and Luhansk. The losses among residents of these self-proclaimed "Republics" are particularly abhorrent.
Further complicating the situation, Russian authorities keep the exact number of casualties classified, likely to prevent a public backlash or an international outcry. Additionally, thousands of Russian soldiers are missing, with many presumed dead and lying in fields near Avdiivka in Donbas, uncollected by their commanders.
Conclusion:
The losses in the Ukraine War are not only tragic but also detrimental to the Russian economy, particularly in terms of skilled workforce and young talent. The harsh realities of these battles continue to unfold, raising ethical and humanitarian questions about the conduct of this war.