Ukraine’s Armed Forces
By Thabo Mosia
Ukraine’s Armed Forces have released updated figures on Russian combat losses as of 26 December 2024. The data reveals staggering numbers, with an estimated 780,860 personnel eliminated since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion on 24 February 2022. The figures highlight the continued intensity of the conflict, reflecting substantial losses of military equipment and personnel on the Russian side.
Key Highlights from the Reported Losses
The reported statistics, released by Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence, outline the following estimated Russian losses:
• Troops: ~780,860 (+1,540 in the past 24 hours).
• Tanks: 9,630 (+2).
• Armoured Fighting Vehicles (AFVs): 19,933 (+10).
• Artillery Systems: 21,357 (+24).
• Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS): 1,256 (no change).
• Aircraft: 369 (no change).
• Helicopters: 329 (no change).
• Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs): 20,971 (+63).
• Cruise Missiles: 3,003 (+55).
• Vehicles & Fuel Tanks: 32,180 (+63).
• Special Equipment: 3,667 (no change).
The detailed report also notes smaller numbers of naval losses, including one submarine and 28 warships or boats.
The Human and Material Cost of War
The staggering loss of 780,860 personnel underscores the devastating human toll of the ongoing conflict. Ukrainian officials attribute this to fierce fighting across the eastern and southern fronts, particularly in areas such as Bakhmut, Kherson, and Kharkiv. Despite heavy casualties on both sides, Ukrainian forces continue to hold strategic positions and repel Russian offensives.
The destruction of over 9,600 tanks and nearly 20,000 armoured vehicles highlights the immense material costs borne by Russia. The loss of equipment such as 21,357 artillery systems and 1,256 MLRS units further suggests logistical and operational challenges for Moscow’s forces.
Strategic Significance of the Losses
The high volume of UAV and cruise missile losses points to Ukraine’s successful efforts to enhance its air defence systems. The deployment of Western-supplied systems such as the NASAMS, IRIS-T, and Patriot batteries has played a pivotal role in intercepting Russian missiles and drones.
Military analysts note that Russia’s ability to sustain its offensive operations is increasingly strained by these cumulative losses. However, they caution that Moscow has continued to adapt its tactics, using human wave attacks and indiscriminate shelling to attempt territorial gains.
Global Response and Support for Ukraine
The international community remains heavily invested in Ukraine’s defence efforts. Western nations, including the United States, United Kingdom, and Germany, have pledged ongoing military aid packages aimed at countering Russian aggression. In recent months, Ukraine has received advanced weaponry such as Leopard 2 tanks, HIMARS rocket systems, and artillery shells.
The international sanctions imposed on Russia have also aimed to degrade its military-industrial complex, limiting its ability to replenish lost equipment and munitions. Despite these efforts, Russia continues to maintain significant stockpiles of Soviet-era weaponry.
Ground Situation in December 2024
The final weeks of December have seen heightened clashes along the eastern frontlines, particularly in the Bakhmut and Avdiivka sectors. Ukrainian forces have reportedly regained small pockets of territory while repelling Russian advances.
In the southern region, including Zaporizhzhia, Russia has intensified artillery barrages, targeting Ukrainian-held positions near the Dnipro River. Analysts suggest that these offensives aim to divert Ukrainian resources away from the eastern frontlines.
Challenges and Resilience
While Ukraine’s reported figures reflect significant Russian losses, the war has exacted a heavy toll on Ukraine as well. The civilian population continues to endure hardships, including power outages, displacement, and the destruction of critical infrastructure. Winter has brought additional challenges, with freezing temperatures complicating military and humanitarian operations.
Despite these difficulties, Ukrainian morale remains high. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has repeatedly emphasised the need for unity and resilience, urging citizens to support the armed forces and maintain international alliances.
International Verification and Disputed Figures
The accuracy of Ukraine’s reported losses for Russian forces has been a subject of debate. While Ukrainian officials provide daily updates on Russian casualties, independent verification of these numbers is challenging due to the fog of war.
Russia’s Ministry of Defence has consistently downplayed its losses, offering much lower figures in official statements. Independent military analysts, however, largely corroborate Ukraine’s assessment of significant Russian casualties, citing satellite imagery, intercepted communications, and open-source intelligence.
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