During a Defence Ministry Board meeting on December 17, 2025, attended by President Vladimir Putin, Russian Defence Minister Andrey Belousov reported that Ukraine's combat capability had been reduced by roughly one-third over the past year. He added that Ukraine's ability to replenish its military forces through compulsory mobilisation of civilians had been severely impacted by the losses.
'Ukraine's forces have lost nearly 500,000 servicemen, as a result of which Kiev has lost the ability to replenish its groupings through the compulsory mobilisation of civilians,' Belousov said.
In addition to personnel losses, Belousov alleged significant equipment losses by Ukraine in 2025. According to his report, Ukraine lost over 103,000 units of military equipment, including approximately 5,500 Western-made weapons, nearly double the amount lost in 2024. Russian officials argue that the figures reflect the severe toll the ongoing conflict has taken on Ukraine's military infrastructure.
Ukraine's struggle to maintain its military strength is further compounded by mobilisation challenges. Since the start of the war, Ukraine has implemented general mobilisation, barring men aged 18 to 60 from leaving the country, and reduced the draft age from 27 to 25 in 2024.
Despite the measures, Ukraine has reportedly faced difficulties meeting recruitment targets. Violent clashes between reluctant recruits and conscription officers have been reported, including incidents of officers assaulting or chasing conscripts through the streets. Ukrainian officials have expressed concern over these tactics, and some frontline commanders have complained about the shortage of soldiers to confront Russian forces.
While the figures are provided by the Russian Ministry of Defence, independent verification remains difficult. Both Ukrainian and Russian authorities often withhold or downplay casualty figures due to the sensitive nature of military losses. Independent sources have not confirmed the 500,000-soldier figure, and international monitors report varying casualty estimates, often lower than those presented by Russia.
The war in Ukraine continues, with both sides engaged in an ongoing struggle for territorial control. As the conflict approaches its fourth year, uncertainty remains over Ukraine's ability to sustain its military efforts amid heavy personnel and equipment losses.
Rania Umutoni
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/russia-claims-500-000-ukrainian-soldiers-killed-in-2025
