Russia has experienced its deadliest month yet in the Ukraine war, with around 1,500 Russian casualties per day in October, according to UK Chief of Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin. This brings Russia’s total losses to 700,000 dead and injured since the conflict began in February 2022.

In an interview with BBC’s *Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg*, Sir Tony stated that the Russian people are bearing a “tremendous cost” for President Putin’s invasion. “Russia is about to suffer 700,000 killed or wounded – an immense level of pain and suffering inflicted on the Russian nation by Putin’s ambition,” he said. These heavy losses, he noted, are for “tiny increments of land.”

While he acknowledged Russia’s tactical gains, Sir Tony pointed out that over 40% of Russia’s public spending is now dedicated to defense and security, creating a significant strain on the country.

Despite some advisors to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump suggesting that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky may have to cede territory for peace, Sir Tony emphasized that Western allies remain committed to supporting Ukraine “as long as it takes.” He added, “That’s the message President Putin must understand and the assurance for President Zelensky.”

Trump has expressed his intent to end the war, framing the ongoing U.S. military and financial aid to Ukraine as a drain on resources, but he has yet to outline his specific plans, leaving the future of U.S. support and strategy for Ukraine uncertain.