Russia has suffered significant losses in terms of tanks and troops since the start of its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. According to the latest figures from Kyiv, Russia has lost over 8,000 tanks since February 24, 2022. The exact number of losses is difficult to ascertain, as both sides are reluctant to disclose the true extent of the damage. Other estimates, such as those from the website Oryx, suggest that the actual number of Russian equipment destroyed may be significantly higher than reported. As of the latest update, Oryx’s tally for Russian tank losses stood at 3,153, with most being destroyed.
The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) reported in February 2024 that Russian tank losses had surpassed 3,000, and Kyiv’s count of losses tends to increase during prolonged battles or concentrated offensives on Ukrainian positions. Ukraine also stated that Russia’s artillery losses had exceeded 14,000. Russian troop losses have also been significant, with Ukraine reporting that Russia lost 1,110 troops in a single day, making it the ninth consecutive day with casualties exceeding 1,000. The total number of Russian troop losses, including both killed and injured, is reported to be 533,090 as of the latest update.
A joint project by the Russian independent media outlet Mediazona and BBC Russia identified the names of 56,858 Russian soldiers who have been killed since the start of the war, an increase of 2,677 over the past three weeks. The project relied on public sources like social media posts, local news reports, and obituaries, providing only a partial picture of the true losses. It was reported that over 3,600 officers, including 424 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel or higher, have been killed. The highest-ranking official to be killed so far is Lieutenant General Oleg Tsokov, Russia’s deputy commander of the Southern Military District. Additionally, at least 11,463 Russian inmates have been killed on Ukraine’s eastern front.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has exacted a heavy toll on Russia, not only in terms of equipment and troops but also in terms of casualties among top military officials. The war has highlighted the high cost of military aggression and the human toll it takes on all sides involved. The relentless fighting and continued losses emphasize the brutality and devastation of war and the importance of finding peaceful solutions to conflicts. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely and work towards a resolution that will bring an end to the suffering and destruction in Ukraine.
