MOSCOW:
According to online US intelligence records, 354,000 Russian and Ukrainian soldiers have been killed or injured in the Ukraine war. It may go into 2023.
The documents, which appear to be classified US war assessments and espionage against allies, provide rare insight into Washington’s view of one of Europe’s deadliest battles since World War Two.
Reuters has not been able to independently verify the documents. As well as Russia, Ukraine, and US officials believe some of the files appear to have been altered.
“Battle for the Donbas Region Likely Heading for a Stalemate Throughout 2023”. States that Russia is unlikely to take east Ukraine.
“While, Russia’s grinding campaign of attrition in the Donbas region is likely heading towards a stalemate, thwarting Moscow’s goal to capture the entire region in 2023,” reads the assessment above a secret map of Russian positions.
While, These tactics have diminished Russian forces and munition stockpiles to a level that, barring an unforeseen recovery, can exhaust Russian units and frustrate Moscow’s war aims, resulting in a protracted war beyond 2023.”
Morover, Russia’s defence ministry declined comment. Moscow believes the documents may be fake and intended to foment strife.
While, Russia has suffered 35,500-43,000 dead in action and 154,000-180,000 wounded, according to a US Defence Intelligence Agency assessment.
“Russia/Ukraine – Assessed Combat Sustainability and Attrition” reports 124,500-131,000 overall casualties, including 15,500-17,500 killed in action and 109,000-113,500 wounded.
