NATO Confirms Russia Losing Up to 25,000 Soldiers Per Month in Ukraine
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that Russia is suffering extraordinary personnel losses during its ongoing war in Ukraine. Speaking at the Global Europe conference in Brussels on January 13, 2026, Rutte estimated that 20,000 to 25,000 Russian soldiers are killed each month.
Rutte emphasized that these losses result from Ukraine’s sustained defensive operations, describing the situation as unsustainable for Moscow. He compared the current conflict to the Soviet Union’s decade-long war in Afghanistan during the 1980s, noting that Moscow is now losing in a single month what took ten years in Afghanistan.
NATO officials highlighted that the high casualty rate underlines the intensity and cost of Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine. The statement also reflects the ongoing challenges Russia faces in maintaining its operational strength amid Ukrainian counterattacks.
The alliance reiterated the importance of monitoring the situation as the conflict continues, stressing that Russia’s losses could have long-term implications for its military capacity. Previous reports also highlighted the impact of Russian strikes on Ukraine’s infrastructure, alongside the use of advanced weaponry like the Oreshnik missile.
Rutte’s remarks provide a rare NATO assessment of Russian personnel losses, offering insight into the human toll of the conflict and reinforcing the strategic significance of Ukraine’s defensive efforts.
