By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, verified Russian military deaths have reached at least 152,142, according to BBC Russian and Mediazona. This count is based on open-source reports and only includes Russian citizens, excluding fighters from the Donetsk and Luhansk republics. Regions like Bashkortostan, Tatarstan, and the Sverdlovsk region have recorded the highest numbers of confirmed fatalities. Furthermore, losses disproportionately affect residents of small towns and rural areas, and casualty levels appear to correlate with local budget reliance on federal subsidies.
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Verified Russian deaths in the Ukraine war surpassing 150,000, according to an independent tally published by The Moscow Times, is a grim milestone, and one that underscores the brutal reality of the ongoing conflict. This figure, derived from verified open-source reports like obituaries and court records, represents the minimum number of confirmed deaths. It’s a stark reminder of the human cost, even if we acknowledge the inherent challenges in obtaining a complete and accurate count during active hostilities.
The methodology behind the tally is crucial. It only includes Russian citizens and excludes fighters from the so-called Donetsk and Luhansk People’s Republics. Also, foreign fighters, such as those from North Korea, Cuba, or Africa, are not factored into this count. This focused approach provides a clearer picture of the loss of life among Russian nationals, which is significant.
Examining the regional distribution of casualties reveals some interesting patterns. Certain regions, like Bashkortostan, Tatarstan, and the Sverdlovsk region, have recorded the highest numbers of confirmed fatalities. The fact that the capital city, Moscow, with a large population, accounted for a comparatively lower number of deaths, while Chechnya reported even fewer, raises questions about the war’s disproportionate impact on certain communities, particularly those in the periphery of the country.
One thing the numbers undeniably illustrate is the scale of the devastation. To put it in perspective, the estimated number of Russian deaths in the ten-year war in Afghanistan was significantly lower. The current rate of casualties in Ukraine is a stark multiple of that from the Afghan war. This dramatic acceleration underscores the intensity and lethality of the fighting.
The implications of such a high death toll are wide-ranging. Aside from the obvious human suffering, there are strategic and societal ramifications. A significant loss of life on the battlefield puts a strain on military resources. It can impact morale and ultimately affect the war effort. The numbers suggest an attrition rate that is unsustainable in the long run, and the fact that there is no priority given to evacuating the wounded.
The reactions to these numbers can be complex. Some may view this figure as relatively small in the grand scheme of a conflict this size, while others may emphasize the inherent value of life and the tragedy of these losses. Regardless of your personal opinions, it remains a staggering number.
It’s crucial to acknowledge the limitations of any such count. The verified number is, by definition, a minimum. The actual number of deaths is almost certainly higher, potentially significantly higher. Given the nature of the conflict and the difficulty in accessing information, it’s safe to assume that many deaths go unrecorded, especially in the chaos of the battlefield.
The fact that Russia may not prioritize the recovery of fallen soldiers also factors into the equation. Some may be listed as missing or simply disappear, further muddying the waters when trying to gauge the true scale of the losses. This is likely to lead to a significant discrepancy between verified deaths and total fatalities.
Additionally, the casualty figures, often including wounded, missing in action, and those who have surrendered, are likely much higher. Some estimates suggest a total casualty number that is approaching 1.2 million, however, this total considers deaths as well as wounded. These numbers are a stark reminder of the overall cost of the war.
The Moscow Times, which used to be headquartered in Moscow but relocated due to the war and restrictive laws, is reporting this information based on findings from the BBC and Mediazona. Even as it strives to provide information, it, too, faces an uphill battle to report on this subject in an objective manner, and to do so independently.
Ultimately, the verified number of Russian deaths, exceeding 150,000, is a sobering indicator of the devastating human toll of the war in Ukraine. This figure, though likely an undercount, is a clear reminder of the scale of the conflict and the profound impact it is having on individuals, families, and communities across Russia. It serves as a stark testament to the ongoing tragedy and the enduring need for a peaceful resolution.