France Reports Over 150,000 Russian Soldiers Fatally Wounded in Ukraine Conflict

In an interview published on Friday with Russian independent newspaper Novaya Gazeta Europe, French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne revealed estimations regarding Russian casualties amid Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine. According to Sejourne, Paris assesses that around 150,000 Russian soldiers have lost their lives during the conflict, with a total tally of 500,000 casualties, including wounded individuals, over the war's three-year span.

Sejourne emphasized the unity and determination of Europe and its allies in the face of the ongoing conflict, highlighting what he perceives as Russia's military setback. "Europe and its partners will remain united and determined, for as long as necessary," he stated. "We estimate Russian military losses at 500,000, including 150,000 deaths," he reiterated, questioning the purpose behind such extensive losses, concluding with a poignant inquiry: "All of this for what? This can be summed up in two words: for nothing."

While France and other Western nations offer estimations, Russia has maintained silence on its own casualties, leaving figures to be speculated by international observers. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky previously stated in February that 180,000 Russian troops had perished in the conflict, while Britain's estimate stands at approximately 450,000 Russians killed or wounded in Ukraine. 

According to reports from various sources including the BBC, over 50,000 Russian military personnel have died, further underlining the toll of the prolonged conflict. The announcement of a "special military operation" by Russian President Vladimir Putin in February 2022 has led to a protracted and bloody attrition war, severing ties between Russia and the West.

Addressing the issue of frozen Russian assets within the European Union, Sejourne reiterated the potential use of these funds to support Ukraine's defense against the invasion. While specifics were not provided, Sejourne mentioned that these assets, with their revenue exceeding 4 billion euros in 2023 due to rising rates, could be allocated towards financing defense and reconstruction efforts in Ukraine.

Novaya Gazeta Europe, where Sejourne's interview was published, emerged following the invasion of Ukraine, founded by exiled journalists from Russia's Novaya Gazeta, a leading independent newspaper.