Fact Check: Russia's incremental gains come at a high cost of troop casualties and damaged armor.

Fact Check: "Russia's incremental gains come at a high cost of troop casualties and damaged armor."

What We Know

The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has led to significant troop casualties on both sides. A recent study by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) indicates that nearly one million Russian troops have been killed or wounded since the beginning of the war in February 2022, with approximately 250,000 confirmed deaths (CSIS). The study highlights that Russia's military campaign has been characterized by a slow rate of territorial gain, with advances measured at about 165 feet per day, which is notably slower than historical offensives like the Somme during World War I (New York Times).

In terms of equipment losses, the same study reports that Russia has lost massive amounts of military hardware, contributing to the high cost of their incremental territorial gains. This situation is compounded by the fact that Russia has had to implement a draft and recruit from non-traditional sources, such as felons and debtors, to maintain troop levels despite these high casualty figures (CSIS).

Analysis

The claim that Russia's incremental gains come at a high cost of troop casualties and damaged armor is supported by multiple sources. The CSIS report, which is based on estimates from American and British intelligence, provides a credible assessment of the situation, noting that no Soviet or Russian war since World War II has approached the fatality rates seen in Ukraine (New York Times). This highlights the severe human cost of the conflict, which is a critical aspect of the claim.

Additionally, the slow pace of Russia's advance, coupled with high casualties, indicates a strategic failure in their military operations. Analysts have pointed out that Russia's inability to effectively conduct ground operations and overcome Ukrainian defenses has led to a prolonged and costly conflict (CSIS). The credibility of the CSIS as a source is bolstered by its reputation as a leading think tank in defense and security analysis, making its findings particularly reliable.

However, it is essential to consider potential biases in reporting. While Western sources may emphasize the failures of the Russian military, they may also underreport or overlook any successes or strategic advantages that Russia might claim. Nonetheless, the overwhelming evidence of high casualty rates and significant equipment losses supports the assertion that Russia's gains come at a steep price.

Conclusion

Verdict: True. The claim that "Russia's incremental gains come at a high cost of troop casualties and damaged armor" is substantiated by credible studies and reports indicating that Russia has suffered substantial losses in both personnel and military equipment while making minimal territorial progress. The evidence suggests that the ongoing conflict is not only costly in terms of human life but also in military resources, reinforcing the validity of the claim.

Fact Check: Russia's incremental gains come at a high cost of troop casualties and damaged armor.