Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that 31,000 Ukrainian soldiers have been killed during Russia’s full-scale invasion. Zelensky provided the updated death toll in response to inflated figures quoted by Russia, emphasizing the significant loss for Ukraine. Typically, Ukrainian officials do not disclose casualty figures, and other estimates, including from US officials, suggest higher numbers.
Zelensky also shared that tens of thousands of civilians in the occupied areas of Ukraine have died, but the exact number remains unknown. He mentioned Russian losses, stating that 180,000 Russian soldiers have been killed, with tens of thousands more injured.
The announcement followed Defence Minister Rustam Umerov’s criticism of Western allies for delays in military aid, impacting Ukraine’s ability to counter Russia effectively. Umerov highlighted the importance of timely supplies in the “mathematics of war” and noted setbacks in Ukraine’s mission due to the lack of resources.
Despite the challenges, Ukraine marked two years since Russia’s invasion, with Western leaders expressing solidarity and Italy and Canada signing security deals with Ukraine to provide support until its potential NATO membership. Canada’s aid package included over three billion Canadian dollars in financial and defence support.
Both Ukraine and Russia are facing difficulties in resourcing their military activities. Western officials claim that Russia is struggling to meet ammunition needs for the conflict. The lack of domestic ammunition production capabilities in Russia has led Moscow to seek alternative sources, posing challenges for the sustained supply of weapons and ammunition.
