Russia has experienced a sustained decline in its military personnel, losing more soldiers than it can mobilize for the fifth consecutive month. This trend has been significantly influenced by the operations of drone units within the Ukrainian armed forces.
According to military sources, the Russian army is reportedly losing at least 1,000 servicemen daily due to casualties. Since the beginning of 2026, total Russian losses have surpassed 141,500, with over 83,000 classified as irrecoverable.
General Syrskiy emphasized that the strategy of active defense has been effective in exhausting Russian forces, regaining territory, and inflicting maximum losses on the enemy.
He noted that Ukraine has substantially increased its strikes deep into Russian territory, aided by the rapid deployment of Middle Strike drones.
Furthermore, Syrskiy mentioned some progress in neutralizing Russian air defense systems at closer ranges, which has allowed for more effective targeting of logistical hubs, oil refineries, and facilities related to Russia’s defense industry.
On May 17, Russia faced one of the largest drone attacks since the onset of the full-scale conflict, with reports indicating the deployment of up to 300 drones. Residents of the Moscow region reported numerous explosions, and Russian authorities claimed to have intercepted over 70 of these drones during the assault.
The Russian military continues to suffer substantial personnel losses, with daily casualties reported at around 1,000. Ukraine's tactical advancements, particularly through drone operations, have contributed to these losses and the effectiveness of its defense strategy.