According to Admiral Rob Bauer, Russia is suffering massive casualties in Ukraine—approximately 35,000 per month—surpassing the Soviet Union’s losses during the entire Afghan conflict.
Russian Losses in Ukraine
Despite the stalemate in the war in Ukraine, Russia is incurring colossal losses, stated Admiral Rob Bauer to RBK-Ukraine during the Kyiv Security Forum last week, with the conversation published Monday.
Russia is losing around 35,000 people (killed and wounded) each month. For comparison, the USSR lost 20,000 people over the entire 10 years of the war in Afghanistan (1979-1989). This is a huge impression. Despite the impasse, they are suffering colossal losses daily. It’s unbelievable.
NATO’s Focus on Threats
According to the Admiral, Russia and terrorist groups pose threats to NATO, and the Alliance is working in these two areas to act proactively.
Future Russian Military Expansion
“We must be fully aware of what awaits us in the future. We anticipate further expansion of the Russian military machine. We will counteract this by developing our capabilities, everything we plan to purchase and acquire in the near future and in the long term. This is directly related to the nature of the threats,” he explained.
NATO’s Strategic Outlook
According to the Chairman of the NATO Military Committee, Russia will seek to regain control over the territories it possessed before the collapse of the USSR, posing a threat not only to the Baltic countries but also to other neighboring regions. NATO is focusing on a defense strategy referred to as “360 degrees,” closely observing the situation in the Arctic, as well as in the east and south.
Baltic States’ Assessment
Despite statements from Baltic officials about the lack of an immediate threat, the Admiral noted that they best understand the situation. He expressed full confidence in their opinions, emphasizing that no one can provide more accurate information about the development of the situation than those who directly monitor the aggressor’s actions on the borders.
Ukraine’s Contribution to NATO Security
According to Bauer, Ukraine makes a significant contribution to NATO security, as even while at war, it is involved in sharing its experience with NATO through JATEC (Joint Analysis, Training and Education Center). “Look at their actions in the Persian Gulf, where they helped countries defend against Iranian air attacks. Now they are truly a security-providing state,” he stated.
