Russia's military deaths hit record high in 2024, stirring outrage

In 2024, Ukraine faced unprecedented disruptions due to extensive attacks on its energy infrastructure by Russia, which led to widespread blackouts affecting over half of its population during the winter. In a sustained effort against Ukraine, Russia lost about 421,000 troops, marking the highest casualty rate since the invasion began in February 2022. The intense conflict saw significant military engagements, including the encirclement of Ukrainian positions at Velyka Novosilka, a critical stronghold. The siege raised concerns about Ukraine's capacity to withstand the ongoing Russian advances, further complicated by regional geopolitical tensions with the involvement of North Korean troops in support of Russia's military efforts. Vladimir Putin faced both triumphs and setbacks during the year. His government characterized Ukraine as a source of extremism while Moscow sought alliances to bolster its military resources. This included strengthening ties with North Korea, which culminated in the deployment of about 10,000 North Korean troops to support Russian operations. The ongoing war continued to strain the Russian military, which is grappling with significant losses in personnel and resources, while struggling to maintain control over strategic territories in Eastern Ukraine. The increasing casualties have prompted Ukraine to adapt its military strategies, relying heavily on drone warfare, and to seek further international support to respond to the heightened threat. The year also saw political turbulence within Russia, highlighted by the death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who was seen as a symbol of resistance against Putin's regime. His passing ignited protests in Moscow, emphasizing the growing discontent among the populace amid escalating military losses and governmental repression. This environment underscored a critical juncture for the Russian leadership, as popular dissent rose against a backdrop of continued military failures. Meanwhile, the United States and its allies monitored developments closely, considering the implications of shifting power dynamics in the region as well as the potential reinstatement of Donald Trump to the presidency, which raised fears about the future of U.S. support for Ukraine. As the conflict enters another year, the situation remains dire, with projections indicating that further losses may occur if the Ukrainian frontlines cannot maintain their positions against the Russian military. Reports of deteriorating conditions for Russian forces coupled with increased Ukrainian resistance suggest that the struggle will be protracted, necessitating a critical reevaluation of strategies from both sides. The geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, influenced by both domestic factors within Russia and international diplomatic maneuvers, as the fight for control in Ukraine persists into 2025.