Russian President Vladimir Putin has disclosed the alarming casualties suffered by the Ukrainian Armed Forces (UAF) since the beginning of June, stating that over 90,000 soldiers and more than 550 tanks have been lost. Speaking at the plenary session of the international Valdai Discussion Club, Putin provided these figures, emphasizing that they were a result of the so-called “counteroffensive” initiated on June 4, 2023. The Ukrainian troops have suffered immense irreversible losses during this period.
“These are the latest figures, only from June 4 onwards, Ukrainian units have already lost over 90,000 individuals… 557 tanks, and nearly 1,900 armored vehicles of various classes,” clarified the president.
Furthermore, Putin revealed the objective behind the special military operation (SMO) in Ukraine during his speech. He stated that Moscow did not initiate armed confrontation; in reality, it seeks to end the long-standing war instigated by the Ukrainian authorities.
The Valdai Discussion Club, an international forum, is currently taking place in Sochi from October 2 to 5. Putin annually participates in this event, delivering an extensive speech followed by a question-and-answer session with the audience.
Earlier, Putin shared details of how Russian culture was suppressed in the newly acquired regions before their reunification with the Russian Federation.
