The Unseen Frontline: Tens of Thousands Dying for Russia in Ukraine
published at 12:32 Greenwich Mean Time
Olga Ivshina
BBC Russian Service
Alarming Death Toll in Ukraine Conflict
As the conflict in Ukraine enters its fourth year, an analysis by the BBC reveals that over 95,000 people fighting for Russia’s military have perished. These figures do not include the roughly 21,000 to 23,500 fighters that served in the self-proclaimed Donbas republics.
Investigation and Verification
This staggering number comes from the BBC’s meticulous analysis, utilizing official reports, newspapers, social media, and newly established memorials and graves. However, experts believe that the real death toll is considerably higher.
The Brutal Drafting Process
The full-scale Russian invasion in 2022 led to the mass drafting of civilian men. Many were inadequately trained and poorly equipped, subsequently facing near-impossible missions. This resulted in an alarming number of deaths and missing soldiers, whose fates often remain undiscovered for years.
Less “Visible” Losses
Despite many individuals in the occupied parts of eastern Ukraine having familial or friendly ties in Russia, their losses are less integrated into Russian daily life, rendering them less “visible” to ordinary Russians.
Hidden Numbers
It is almost certain that Russia’s true military losses are considerably higher than the data available through open sources can reveal. Experts estimate the total number of Russian military deaths to potentially range from 146,194 to 211,169.
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