**Russia Loses Thousands of Troops in Ukraine**
Russia has lost 895,450 troops in Ukraine since February 24, 2022, according to the General Staff of Ukraine’s Armed Forces. This number includes 1,210 casualties over just one day.
In addition to human losses, Russia has also lost thousands of vehicles and equipment, including:
* 10,344 tanks
* 21,489 armored fighting vehicles
* 40,785 vehicles and fuel tanks
* 24,598 artillery systems
* 1,318 multiple launch rocket systems
* 1,104 air defense systems
* 370 airplanes
* 331 helicopters
* 29,467 drones
* 28 ships and boats
* One submarine
**Ceasefire Negotiations**
Ukraine is pushing for a ceasefire before negotiations on a permanent resolution can begin. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that securing a ceasefire should be the primary goal.
Turkey has positioned itself as a potential mediator in the conflict, maintaining diplomatic and economic ties with both Russia and Ukraine while supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty.
**Russia Advancing**
Russian forces are advancing on all fronts, according to Yuri Ushakov, a close adviser to Vladimir Putin. This could make a ceasefire seem like a way for Ukraine to strengthen its position.
**International Support**
Several countries, including the UK, France, and Canada, have announced plans to provide support to Ukraine. Mark Carney, the newly elected Canadian Prime Minister, discussed increasing pressure on Moscow by imposing additional sanctions against Russia’s banking sector.
France President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that it is not up to Russia to decide whether foreign forces can be stationed in Ukraine.
**Proposed Contingent**
A proposed contingent of around 10,000 troops from the UK and France would assist with weapons, logistics, and intelligence support. Thirty-five countries have offered to provide support in some form.
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