"Putin Misjudges His Opponents." The Terrifying Balance of the Russian Campaign, Losses Accelerate
The article discusses the significant losses Russia has incurred in its ongoing invasion of Ukraine, which has now lasted four years with minimal territorial gains.
The article highlights the devastating realities of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which has lasted four years and resulted in massive losses for Russia against an almost stagnant front line. Initial expectations of a swift military operation quickly transformed into a protracted conflict, with Russia paying a steep price without achieving significant successes. Analysis informs that Russia's losses far exceed those of Ukraine, with estimates suggesting that between 1.1 million and 1.4 million Russians have been lost, including between 230,000 and 430,000 dead soldiers.
Experts argue that President Vladimir Putin's belief in exhausting Ukraine stems from a continuous underestimation of his opponents, leading to even greater Russian casualties. The analysis, which combines intelligence estimates, governmental data, and satellite images, outlines how the Russian military's operational capacity has faltered over the course of the war. Furthermore, the model reveals that despite the initial strategic goals, Russia's military approach has resulted in a drawn-out confrontation that has drained its resources and personnel without any long-term benefits.
As the war continues, the implications for Russia are severe, raising questions about the sustainability of its military efforts and the costs of its actions on the battlefield. This situation not only affects Ukraine and its territories but also has significant repercussions for Russia’s domestic stability and international relations, particularly in the context of Western responses to the ongoing conflict.