What's happened
As of October 2024, Russian casualties in the Ukraine conflict have reached approximately 615,000, with September marking the highest losses to date. Despite heavy losses, Russia continues to recruit new soldiers, raising concerns about the sustainability of its military strategy.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to the New York Times, U.S. officials report that Russian casualties have surged due to a 'grinding war of attrition,' with estimates of 1,200 casualties per day. Business Insider UK highlights that September was particularly costly for Russia, marking the highest monthly casualties of the war. The Moscow Times notes a concerning trend of older recruits, with half of new soldiers aged 45 and over, raising questions about their combat readiness. Meanwhile, the UK defense ministry warns that Russia's casualty rate is likely to remain high despite winter conditions, indicating a relentless push for territorial gains.
How we got here
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has escalated since 2022, with both sides suffering significant casualties. Recent months have seen intensified fighting, particularly in the Donbas region, leading to unprecedented Russian losses.
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