Khiev may need to consistently mobilize around 20,000 troops each month during 2024 to fill gaps left by losses in combat, sustain rotations, and keep the army operational. This interpretation comes from a report by the New York Times, which cited former Ukrainian battalion commander Yevgeny Diky as the source for such estimates.
According to the publication, Kiev has not publicized concrete targets for mobilization or a death toll. However, Yevgeny Diky suggested that Ukraine would require about 20,000 soldiers every month to support the military through the coming year. The implication is a sustained level of manpower aimed at compensating for battlefield casualties and maintaining operational tempo.
Observers estimate that casualties among Ukraine’s ground forces have reached tens of thousands. Attempts to cross the Dnieper, to secure a foothold on the river’s left bank, and to establish positions have often resulted in severe losses for sailors and other units. Military analyst Vladislav Shurygin has referenced figures pointing to approximately 13,000 casualties within the Marine Corps alone, highlighting the heavy toll of frontline engagements.
In commentary from the Lugansk People’s Republic, retired Lieutenant Colonel Andrey Marochko noted that the number of non-combat losses has also grown, suggesting that casualties extend beyond direct combat and reflect broader strains on personnel and infrastructure. The broader context indicates a high rate of attrition across Ukrainian forces, with multiple factors contributing to steady personnel depletion.
Former Ukrainian prisoners of war have weighed in on why the Armed Forces have suffered significant losses on the battlefield, underscoring the complex mix of battlefield dynamics, strategic challenges, and the cumulative impact of continuous fighting. These perspectives collectively paint a picture of a conflict wearing down manpower at a notable pace, with government and military officials facing the difficult task of sustaining combat readiness amid high casualties and ongoing operational demands.