Since the start of the conflict in Ukraine, Russian casualties have been mounting at an alarming rate. According to reports from US, UK, and other Western intelligence agencies, an average of 1,000 Russian troops were killed or wounded per day in May alone. This is the highest reported casualty rate since the invasion began in February 2022.
The increase in casualties occurred as Russia escalated its attacks on Ukrainian positions in the Kharkiv region. To seize control of certain areas, Russia has been employing high-casualty head-on attacks known as “human wave” or “meat grinder” attacks. While these tactics were successful in previous battles, they are proving less effective now. Despite this setback, Russia has been able to recruit new soldiers at a rapid pace while Ukraine struggles to find new recruits.
According to Western intelligence officials, Ukraine reported that 31,000 of its troops have been killed since the start of the war. However, some believe that this number may be higher due to undocumented deaths and missing persons. To replace losses, Russia has been offering lucrative contracts to new recruits and drafting prisoners into the military. In September 2022 alone, Russia drafted 300,000 civilians into the military but US officials believe another draft may not be necessary soon due to declining enlistment rates and a shrinking pool of available recruits.
Despite the high casualty rates for both sides, Ukraine remains determined to hold onto its territory and push back against Russian aggression. With continued support from allies around the world and innovative tactics employed by Ukrainian forces, it is possible that Ukraine can turn the tide in its favor and bring an end to this brutal conflict once and for all.