More than 70,000 Russian soldiers have now died in the ongoing war in Ukraine, with volunteers—civilians who enlisted after the conflict began—making up the largest proportion of those killed. This grim milestone, analyzed by BBC Russian and Mediazona, reveals the heavy burden carried by those who joined voluntarily, many from economically struggling regions of Russia.
Volunteers now account for 20% of confirmed deaths, surpassing former prisoners and mobilized soldiers. The trend has worsened since October 2022, with weekly volunteer fatalities rarely falling below 100, and in some cases, exceeding 300. Often sent to the most dangerous frontlines, especially in Donetsk, these volunteers bear the brunt of Russia’s relentless offensive strategies, commonly referred to as the “meat grinder.”
The story of Rinat Khusniyarov, a 62-year-old from Ufa, typifies the volunteers’ plight. Working two jobs to survive, he joined the army and was killed after less than three months. Like him, many volunteers have joined willingly, lured by the promise of better wages and benefits, despite the harsh conditions.
The volunteers often face poor training and inadequate equipment, leaving them vulnerable. Some describe being sent to the front lines with minimal preparation, forced to buy their own gear to survive. The Russian military’s inability to provide proper medical care also exacerbates casualties, with 39% of deaths caused by limb injuries that could have been survivable with better treatment.
Foreigners and prisoners are also being drawn into the conflict, enticed by promises of citizenship or freedom. Despite growing casualties and complaints from both soldiers and international communities, Russia continues to recruit more volunteers to avoid a new wave of forced mobilization.
This growing toll underscores the brutal reality of Russia’s strategy, which shows no signs of easing. Meanwhile, Ukraine has provided limited information on its own losses, with estimates suggesting similarly devastating figures.
