Russia's war deaths in Ukraine reach 450,000 by 2026

At least 450,000 Russians were killed by summer 2026 due to the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, according to leaked Russian statistical agency data, with the actual toll likely much higher. The analysis shows Moscow paid a huge price for small territorial gains, with 120,000 deaths in the Avdiivka and Pokrovsk districts and 48,000 in Bakhmut. Experts say the losses, peaking at tens of thousands per month in 2025, exceed recruitment rates and will prevent similar offensives. The leaked files, covering 11.5 million deaths, also reveal an ageing force with an average death age of 40, disproportionate losses among ethnic minorities and poorer regions, and over 4,000 foreign soldiers killed. The estimated total attributable to the war is about 550,000 deaths.