**Over 121,000 Russian Soldiers Killed in Ukraine: Media Investigation**
A recent report by the Kyiv Independent has shed light on the devastating human cost of Russia’s war against Ukraine. The investigation, which covers the period from February 24, 2022 to July 31, 2025, has identified over 121,000 Russian military personnel who have been confirmed killed in action.
**A Grim Reality**
The Kyiv Independent’s report highlights a stark reality: despite Russia’s efforts to downplay its losses, the actual numbers are likely significantly higher than what is being reported. The journalists behind the investigation have relied on verified information from public sources such as obituaries, social media posts, memorial tree-plantings, regional media reports, and statements from local authorities.
**A Lack of Transparency**
It’s worth noting that both Moscow and Kyiv rarely officially report their losses. Ukraine estimates that Russia’s overall casualties during the full-scale war have surpassed 1 million. President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed that Russian losses are approximately three times greater than that of Ukraine, although he didn’t specify the total number of losses suffered.
**Disagreements on Casualty Numbers**
In a podcast interview, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio claimed that 60,000 Russian soldiers were killed in July alone, while former U.S. President Donald Trump put the number closer to 20,000. These estimates are significantly higher than the numbers reported by Ukraine’s General Staff, which estimate that Russia has lost 1,065,220 troops since the start of the war.
**Renewed Summer Offensives**
The report notes that Russia has been steadily gaining ground in eastern Ukraine and Kursk Oblast in recent months, but at a heavy cost. The publication highlights internal documents published by Ukraine’s “I Want to Live” government project, which show that Russia’s 41st Combined Arms Army fighting in eastern Ukraine has suffered “catastrophic” losses.
**A Humanitarian Crisis**
As the conflict continues, there is growing concern about the humanitarian impact on Russian families. Ukraine’s Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War (POWs) reported that more than 100,000 Russian families have contacted a Ukrainian-run initiative in search of information about missing Russian soldiers.
**A Tragic Toll**
The Kyiv Independent’s investigation serves as a grim reminder of the human cost of war. The complete list of identified casualties published by the outlet marks three years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. As we continue to follow this complex and tragic story, it’s essential to acknowledge the devastating impact on individuals, families, and communities.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com
