Russian Winter Offensive to Raise Casualties, Ex-Serviceman Says

Former Ukrainian serviceman Serhii Marko predicted in a Radio NV interview that Russian forces will intensify their offensive in winter, citing factors that will increase their losses. Marko said winter weather will limit long-range drone flights due to low clouds, but falling leaves will reduce cover for Russian troops, making them more visible to thermal imagers and drones. He also noted that soldiers cannot move long distances without rest points in winter. Marko expects significantly higher Russian casualties within one to two months. On November 1, Ukrainian forces eliminated 2,500 Russian soldiers, the highest daily toll of the war, and October 2026 saw record monthly losses of 54,400.