In May 2022, an average of 1,000 Russian troops were killed or wounded per day in Ukraine, according to reports from US, UK, and other Western intelligence agencies. The casualty rate was estimated at 1,200 a day by the UK military intelligence, which is the highest reported since the invasion began in February 2022. Despite this high casualty rate, Russia has been able to recruit new soldiers at a rapid pace while Ukraine struggles to find new recruits.
In recent months, Russia has been employing high-casualty head-on attacks known as “human wave” or “meat grinder” attacks in an attempt to seize control of certain areas. While these attacks were used with some success in previous battles, they are proving less effective now. Meanwhile, Russia has been offering lucrative contracts to new recruits and drafting prisoners into the military to replace losses.
According to US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, the total number of Russian troops killed or wounded in the conflict is around 350,000. However, Western intelligence officials believe that this number is likely higher due to the lack of distinction made between those killed and wounded. Additionally, Russia drafted 300,000 civilians into the military in September 2022 but US officials believe another draft will not be necessary in the near future.
The ongoing conflict continues to result in high casualty rates for Russian troops while Ukraine grapples with sustaining its military forces. Despite this adversity
