Russian Military and Economic Toll: Foreign Minister Sibiga Details 480,000 Casualties in 2025

Russian Casualties and Territorial Gains

According to ХВИЛЯ: Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sibiga has presented data on Russian losses and territorial seizures in the war against Ukraine for the years 2025-2026, alongside figures on Russia's economic situation. According to his report, Russia suffered 480,000 military personnel killed and wounded in 2025 alone. Despite these staggering losses, Russia managed to occupy an additional 0.7% of Ukrainian territory that same year. However, by January 2026, Russian daily casualties were exceeding 1,000 soldiers, and their rate of territorial advance was at its lowest in nine months. These figures highlight the immense human cost Russia is paying for marginal gains on the battlefield.

Russia's Economic Strain

During the period from January 2024 to January 2026, Russia also occupied an additional 21% of the Donetsk region. Sibiga noted that despite these seizures, the total area controlled by Ukraine remains larger. He further stated that the war has a tendency to return to where it began-in Russia. The economic situation within Russia is also a cause for concern. Regional budget deficits have reached $21 billion, an eightfold increase since 2023. Production is falling in 12 key industries, and the number of shuttered enterprises has risen by 15%. Approximately 10% of Russian businesses are on the verge of bankruptcy.

'The war is returning to where it began-in Russia. And that is just.' Andrii Sibiga

Sibiga also provided data on Ukrainian attacks on military targets behind enemy lines, which amounted to 719 strikes in 2025, inflicting an estimated $15 billion in damage. This sustained pressure deep within Russian-held territory adds another layer of strain to their war effort.

'The sooner Putin loses his illusions of a military victory, the sooner efforts to achieve peace will succeed.' Andrii Sibiga

This statement from Ukraine's foreign minister underscores both the military and economic dimensions of the conflict. The severe Russian troop losses and worsening domestic economic indicators point to significant internal pressures that could affect Russia's capacity to sustain a prolonged war. Meanwhile, Ukraine's increasing strikes on strategic targets signal a continued and adaptive defensive campaign that will shape the conflict's future trajectory.