In a press conference on February 25, 2024, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that approximately 31,000 Ukrainian soldiers have tragically lost their lives defending their country in the two years since Russia initiated its full-scale invasion. This marks the first time that Kyiv has officially disclosed the death toll of soldiers, with Zelenskyy choosing not to provide numbers for the wounded and missing.

Zelenskyy pointed out that Russian President Vladimir Putin's forces have suffered a significant 500,000 casualties in the ongoing conflict, with 180,000 soldiers reported as having been killed. This figure contrasts a recent statement from a senior U.S. Defense Department official, who cited 315,000 Russian troops killed or wounded earlier in the month.

During the press conference, Zelenskyy urged Ukraine's allies to expedite aid deliveries to the war-torn nation, emphasizing that delays could result in further lives lost. He highlighted the importance of strength and weaponry in the conflict, expressing confidence in Ukraine's ability to emerge victorious. Zelenskyy noted that any retreat by Putin's forces would likely have a substantial impact on Russian society.

As the death toll in the Russia-Ukraine war continues to rise, President Zelenskyy's plea for support and swift action underscores the urgency of the situation faced by Ukraine and its armed forces.