The Human Cost: Estimating Russian and Ukrainian Losses in the Ongoing War

Losses of Russia:

Named Lists of the Deceased: According to data compiled by BBC, "Meduza," and volunteers, by the end of September 2024, over 70,000 names of Russian soldiers killed in the invasion of Ukraine were confirmed. This includes both professional soldiers and volunteers, mobilized troops, and convicts recruited for combat.

General Estimates: There are various estimates of Russian losses. Western media reports suggest that total Russian military casualties (killed and wounded) might exceed 750,000, with around 200,000 killed. These numbers include losses of the regular army, mercenaries, and civilians involved in the conflict.

Analysis of Losses: It's noted that since September 2024, losses among volunteers have outstripped those in other categories, linked to the recruitment of civilians into the military after the conflict began.

Losses of Ukraine:

Official Statements: In February 2024, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that 31,000 Ukrainian Armed Forces soldiers had been killed. However, other estimates, based on Western intelligence and analysis, suggest that by the end of 2024, Ukraine's losses could have reached 43,000 killed and 370,000 wounded.

Western Estimates: The Economist, for example, estimated Ukrainian losses at 60-100,000 killed and around 400,000 wounded, unable to return to service.

Civilian Casualties: Losses among Ukraine's civilian population are also significant, although exact figures remain uncertain due to the ongoing nature of the combat.

The losses in this conflict are measured not only by the number of killed and wounded but also by the immense human tragedies, destruction of infrastructure, and social instability. It's essential to understand that these numbers might be inaccurate due to limited access to information and potential manipulation of data by the states involved. Any estimates should be considered with these factors in mind.

It's worth noting that information from social media, especially X, can be distorted or used for propaganda purposes, so such data should be treated with caution.

In conclusion, war brings immense suffering and losses to both sides, highlighting the urgent need for peaceful solutions to end the conflict.