CSIS: Russia’s losses in Ukraine exceed any state since WWII. What it gained for it is staggering

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) reports that Russia has lost more than 1.2 million troops, including killed, wounded, and missing in action, in the war against Ukraine, according to Euronews. 

No major state has suffered losses or deaths of this scale in any war since World War II, the CSIS analysts emphasize.

Comparing Russia’s losses with other wars: the record cost 

CSIS analysts also compared US losses in past wars:

• Korean War – 54,487 killed
• Vietnam War – 47,434 killed
• Persian Gulf War (1990–1991) – 149 killed
• Afghanistan – 2,465 killed
• Iraq – 4,432 killed

"Despite massive human losses, the Russian army is advancing extremely slowly," analysts note.

Tactical picture: slow advances and minimal territorial gains

During the latest offensive on Pokrovsk, Russian forces advanced only 70 meters per day, slower even than the bloody Battle of the Somme in World War I, according to CSIS.

Since the beginning of 2024, Russian troops have captured less than 1.5% of Ukrainian territory, demonstrating the inefficiency of their offensive operations despite enormous human losses.

Economic and strategic consequences of the war for Russia

CSIS highlights that the prolonged war and international sanctions are weakening Russia’s economic potential.

Due to the war and sanctions pressure, Russia is gradually becoming a "second- or third-rate economic power.” 

The analysts emphasize that manpower losses and economic pressure reduce Russia’s ability to conduct effective military operations and pursue its strategic ambitions in the region.