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Russia’s army is undeniably larger than it was two years ago, a significant increase in sheer numbers. However, this growth hasn’t translated into a stronger fighting force; in fact, the quality of the Russian military has demonstrably decreased. This is evident in several key areas.
The high casualty rate among Russian soldiers speaks volumes. The sheer number of deaths and the reliance on conscripts, many of whom lack adequate training, highlight a critical flaw in the Russian military’s approach. The emphasis on quantity over quality, a strategy reminiscent of past conflicts, proves disastrous in the face of modern warfare. This isn’t merely about a lack of advanced weaponry; it’s a fundamental issue of soldier preparedness and effectiveness.… Continue reading
Colonel General Gennady Anashkin, commander of the South Forces Group, was dismissed from his post for allegedly falsifying reports on battlefield progress near Siversk, Donetsk. This dismissal, reported by Russian media and military bloggers, follows criticisms of misleading information resulting in significant Russian losses. While the Ministry of Defense cites a planned rotation, bloggers suggest the removal is due to inaccurate reports. The incident highlights the reliance on military bloggers for information amidst the ongoing conflict and Ukraine’s ongoing intense defense.
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As of November 22nd, an estimated 60,000 Russian troops, augmented by approximately 11,000 North Korean soldiers, are concentrated in Russia’s Kursk Oblast. These forces aim to establish a buffer zone along the Sumy Oblast border, countering Ukraine’s August incursion. Ukrainian forces, having initially gained ground, are holding their positions in Kursk Oblast while Russian forces have retaken approximately half of the initially lost territory. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant Russian casualties, with over 7,900 killed, 12,200 wounded, and 717 captured in the three months since the offensive began.
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Several Russian officers have been arrested for falsifying battlefield reports claiming territorial gains near Siversk. These fabrications, allegedly driven by a desire to impress Moscow, are now under investigation, impacting commanders from multiple brigades. This action reflects a change in Moscow’s approach to military failures, exposing internal struggles and weakening Russia’s war effort. The arrests highlight a breakdown in trust and reveal the challenges Russia faces in achieving battlefield success. Continued Ukrainian resistance and sustained Western support exacerbate these internal weaknesses.
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The Kyiv Independent celebrates its third anniversary, a milestone made possible by the generous support of our 12,000 members. While millions read our free, accessible journalism, only a fraction contribute financially. To ensure our continued operation and prepare for the challenges of 2025, we are seeking 1,000 new members. Your contribution, whether a membership or spreading the word, directly supports our mission of independent reporting.
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Russia’s largest film studio, Mosfilm, has donated 36 aging tanks to the Russian military, according to its head, Karen Shakhnazarov. These tanks, including T-55 and PT-76 models, were originally props for film productions and are considered obsolete by modern standards. However, as Russia struggles to replenish its war equipment after heavy losses in Ukraine, the studio’s contribution highlights the desperate measures being taken to fill the void. While the tanks’ effectiveness on the modern battlefield is uncertain, their deployment underscores the strain on Russia’s military resources.
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Buryats, an indigenous Siberian group, are disproportionately represented among Russian troops fighting in Ukraine, a trend mirroring their participation in the Korean War. This overrepresentation stems from historical factors such as Buryatia’s proximity to North Korea, high concentration of military bases, and economic hardship, making military service attractive. However, the “Buryat” label has become a catch-all term for any Asian-looking Russian soldier in Ukrainian discourse, potentially overstating the actual Buryat involvement in the war. This situation highlights the enduring consequences of historical military deployments and the complexities of ethnic identity in a conflict zone.
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Russian forces, bolstered by North Korean reinforcements, are engaging in fierce fighting with Ukrainian troops in Kursk Oblast, aiming to reclaim the area before President-elect Trump’s inauguration. Despite facing significant losses, the Kremlin is determined to recapture the Ukrainian salient, particularly the town of Sudzha. The Ukrainian forces, outnumbered and outgunned, are putting up a valiant defense, inflicting heavy casualties on the Russians through drone strikes and tank engagements. This desperate struggle reflects a larger political battle, with Russia seeking to solidify its territorial gains before a potential ceasefire, potentially handing Ukraine control of a portion of Russian territory.
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Russian forces are experiencing significant losses in Ukraine as a result of poor training and leadership, according to an article by David Axe in The Daily Beast. In a single day in mid-October, nearly 1,700 Russian troops were killed or wounded and more than 100 vehicles lost during an attack by Ukrainian forces, he wrote. Despite these losses, and a general lack of manpower, the Russian military has reportedly concentrated its efforts on gaining as much territory in Ukraine as possible ahead of winter. It has increased payments to new recruits and is said to be relying on reinforcements from North Korea. Meanwhile, Ukraine is reported to be having significant manpower issues of its own.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood