Newly declassified U.S. intelligence reveals the extent of the massive losses suffered by Russia during its invasion of Ukraine. The assessment indicates that over 13,000 Russian forces have been killed or wounded since Moscow launched its offensive in October 2020. Additionally, Ukraine’s military has successfully destroyed or rendered immobile more than 220 Russian combat vehicles, equivalent to six battalions’ worth of vehicles.
The Russian offensive along the Avdiivka-Novopavlivka axis in eastern Ukraine has not resulted in any strategic gains, according to the National Security Council spokesperson, Adrienne Watson. She described the Russian losses as severe. However, Russia remains determined to press forward despite persistent shortages of trained personnel, munitions, and equipment.
The declassification of this intelligence coincides with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit to Washington, where he has been urging U.S. lawmakers for continued support and assistance. During a speech at the National Defense University, Zelenskyy pleaded with lawmakers not to betray Ukraine’s forces and highlighted the importance of providing more weapons and support.
The White House is urging U.S. lawmakers to approve over $61 billion in supplemental funding for Ukraine before the end of the year. However, some lawmakers, particularly Republicans, have raised concerns and pushed for provisions related to strengthening U.S. immigration policies and border security. The White House argues that the latest intelligence underscores the urgency of supporting Ukraine and ensuring they have the necessary resources to defend themselves.
Top U.S. military and intelligence officials have previously stated that Russia’s losses in Ukraine have set its military back by several years. The impact of these losses highlights the significance of continuing to support Ukraine in its efforts to counter Russian aggression.
Overall, the declassified intelligence sheds light on the extent of Russian losses in Ukraine and emphasizes the need for continued support to Ukraine in the face of persistent Russian aggression. The situation remains critical, and Ukraine is calling on the international community, particularly the United States, to stand with them in their fight for sovereignty and security.
This news is set to have significant implications for both regional dynamics and the broader global landscape, as the international community closely monitors the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
