Russian Defense Minister Claims Nearly 500,000 Ukrainian Military Casualties Since 2022 Invasion

Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu has claimed that the Ukrainian military has suffered nearly 500,000 casualties since the start of the Russian invasion in February 2022.

The staggering figure, if accurate, highlights the immense human toll of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

According to the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces, Russia has also experienced significant losses, with an estimated 460,260 Russian troops killed since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. The Ukrainian military reports that over the past day alone, Russian forces suffered 730 casualties.

In addition to the loss of life, the conflict has resulted in the destruction of vast amounts of military equipment on both sides. Ukraine claims that Russia has lost 7,236 tanks, 13,904 armored fighting vehicles, 15,812 vehicles and fuel tanks, 11,736 artillery systems, 1,046 multiple launch rocket systems, 768 air defense systems, 348 airplanes, 325 helicopters, 9,385 drones, 26 ships and boats, and one submarine since the invasion began.

The ongoing fighting has also seen key developments in recent days, with the US House passing $61 billion in aid to Ukraine and the potential for the US to start sending ATACMS missiles to Ukraine within a week. Ukrainian drone strikes have targeted Russian energy facilities, further intensifying the conflict.

Why this matters: The staggering casualty figures and the ongoing escalation of the conflict emphasize the urgent need for a peaceful resolution. The human cost of the war continues to mount, with far-reaching consequences for the people of Ukraine and the stability of the region.

As the war continues, Russia is reportedly sending troops from its far eastern Pacific Fleet to replenish personnel losses in Ukraine. The heavy casualties on both sides serve as a somber reminder of the devastating impact of the conflict, which has now entered its third year with no clear end in sight.

Key Takeaways

• Russia claims Ukraine suffered 500,000 casualties since Feb 2022 invasion.
• Ukraine reports Russia has lost 460,260 troops since full-scale invasion.
• Ukraine claims Russia has lost vast military equipment, including 7,236 tanks.
• US House passes $61 billion in aid to Ukraine, may send ATACMS missiles.
• Ongoing conflict has heavy casualties, with no clear end in sight.