The Human Toll of War: Study Estimates 2 Million Military Casualties in Ukraine; UN Marks 2025 as Deadliest Year for Civilians

A new report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) reveals the staggering scale of the conflict in Ukraine, estimating total military casualties at 1.8 million, potentially reaching 2 million by Spring 2026. Russia has borne the brunt with 1.2 million casualties (including 325,000 killed)—a toll described as unprecedented for any superpower since World War II. Ukraine’s military losses are estimated between 500,000 and 600,000.

The civilian impact is equally devastating. According to the UN, 2025 was the "deadliest year" for non-combatants since the invasion began, with over 2,500 civilians killed in that year alone. Total civilian fatalities since February 2022 have reached approximately 15,000, highlighting a relentless humanitarian crisis as the war approaches its fourth anniversary with no end in sight.