Leaked data points to massive Russian casualties as Moscow seeks NATO talks

Leaked records from Russia's Rosstat registry indicate that nearly 500,000 Russian military personnel have died in Ukraine since February 2022. According to analysis by Janis Kluge of the German Institute for International and Security Affairs, monthly Russian casualties exceeded 15,000 in late 2024 and early 2025. Reports also highlight problematic recruitment practices within Russia, including the enlistment of individuals with severe mental health conditions.

Concurrently, European security agencies are intensifying crackdowns on Russian proxy networks, exemplified by a raid by Latvia's State Security Service targeting suspected operative Vasilijs Kovacovs near Riga. Meanwhile, reports suggest Moscow is seeking direct bilateral security negotiations with European NATO members. German ministries are reportedly reviewing a Russian working document outlining proposed terms, although government-aligned sources have denied its existence.

Sources: Beta, Danas, Klix, N1, Vijesti