In a significant update from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the General Staff of Ukraine’s Armed Forces disclosed that Russia has sustained staggering losses since the onset of its full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022. As of May 20, 2023, the reported number of Russian troops lost in the conflict has reached an alarming total of 975,800. This figure underscores the intense and prolonged nature of the conflict, which has seen heavy fighting across various fronts.

Among these losses, the report specifies that 1,030 Russian soldiers were killed in just the past day, reflecting the ongoing intensity of the military operations. Additionally, the report details extensive material losses suffered by Russian forces, including 10,834 tanks, 22,567 armoured fighting vehicles, 49,093 vehicles and fuel tanks, and 28,067 artillery systems. Other significant losses include 1,388 multiple launch rocket systems, 1,167 air defense systems, 372 aircraft, 336 helicopters, and 36,621 drones. In terms of naval capability, Russia has lost 28 ships and boats, alongside one submarine.

As these figures illustrate the profound cost of the conflict for Russia, the geopolitical landscape surrounding the war continues to evolve. In a separate development, China, a key player on the global stage, has expressed its support for renewed peace efforts between Russia and Ukraine. Following recent announcements from US President Donald Trump, who indicated that Russia and Ukraine would begin peace talks after a conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, China has stepped in to advocate for “direct dialogue.”

Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning stated, “China supports all efforts aimed at achieving peace.” On Tuesday, she emphasized the importance of dialogue and negotiations between the two nations to facilitate a political resolution to the ongoing crisis. Mao expressed hope that “the parties concerned will carry on with the dialogue and negotiation so as to reach a fair, lasting and binding peace agreement acceptable to all parties.” This statement reflects China's diplomatic approach, aiming to position itself as a mediator in the escalating conflict.