Rutte: Russia's losses in Ukraine exceed 40,000 troops monthly

Statistics on Russian military losses

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte reported that the Russian army has been suffering significant losses in Ukraine over the past few months. According to his data, more than 40,000 Russian servicemen have been killed or seriously wounded each month. Rutte added that preliminary estimates suggest this figure may have been even higher in October, exceeding the mark of 50,000 personnel.

Comparison with historical data

Speaking at the Atlantic Future Forum on 11 November, the Alliance's head emphasised that such a scale of losses demonstrates Russia's failure on the battlefield. For clarity, Rutte drew a parallel with the Vietnam War, noting that the US lost 56,000 troops over the 14 years of that conflict.

Strategy of pressure on the civilian population

The NATO Secretary General explained that Vladimir Putin is attempting to break Ukraine's will to fight by striking the civilian population. "Путін намагається зламати волю України до боротьби, завдаючи ударів по цивільному населенню. Він атакує українські міста ракетами й дронами, намагаючись знищити критичну інфраструктуру напередодні зими" (Putin is trying to break Ukraine's will to fight by striking the civilian population. He is attacking Ukrainian cities with missiles and drones, attempting to destroy critical infrastructure ahead of winter), Rutte stressed.

Hybrid threats in Europe

In addition to direct combat operations, Russia has intensified a campaign of hostile actions across the entire territory of Europe. According to Rutte, Vladimir Putin is trying to divide European countries, destabilise their societies, and weaken support for Ukraine. Arson, drone incidents, cyberattacks, and other malicious acts are being used to achieve these goals.

Alliance response

Meanwhile, the NATO Secretary General noted that these attempts are not yielding the results desired by the Kremlin. In response to each Russian hybrid attack, Alliance member states are strengthening their support for Ukraine.