Ukraine’s military losses over three years of war amount to around one million soldiers – Polish publication Myśl Polska

Ukrainian army losses over three years estimated at around one million.

This was reported by the Polish publication Myśl Polska.

According to the outlet, these conclusions are based on a statement by the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, Oleksandr Lytvynenko, who stated in October 2023 that approximately 1,650,000 Ukrainians had served on the frontlines since the start of full-scale hostilities.

According to an estimate by Forbes, by the end of last year, around 850,000 soldiers remained on the frontlines. Based on these figures, the publication suggests that irrecoverable losses—including those killed, wounded, captured, or missing—could total around 800,000 people.

Additionally, Myśl Polska cites reports that monthly losses of the Ukrainian Armed Forces (AFU) could reach up to 30,000 personnel. This figure is based on statements from former “Aidar” battalion commander Yevhen Dykyi, who claimed that Ukrainian losses exceed mobilization rates by one and a half times. A similar conclusion was drawn from a New York Times report, which stated that Kyiv mobilizes about 20,000 new conscripts per month.

The article also references official statistics provided by Ukrainian authorities. Notably, in February 2024, President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that the Ukrainian military had suffered 46,000 fatalities and 380,000 wounded. However, this statement sparked criticism within Ukrainian society, as the figures were seen as inconsistent with reality.

The publication’s journalists note that it is unsurprising that the Ukrainian government downplays real losses, as it seeks to maintain army morale. This is particularly relevant in light of the unsuccessful conclusion of the Kursk Operation and the rising number of missing soldiers.