Russia is suffering enormous losses in the Ukraine war, with daily casualties rising significantly. While official figures remain elusive, Ukrainian authorities report staggering numbers of Russian soldiers killed or injured, estimated to exceed half a million since the invasion began in February 2022. The ongoing conflict has not only resulted in human losses but also extensive damage to Russian military equipment, including tanks, artillery systems, and drones. NATO and Western intelligence agencies corroborate these figures, suggesting that Russia's military campaign comes at a steep cost, raising questions about its sustainability in the long run.
Meanwhile, the Russian Orthodox Church plays a pivotal role in shaping the narrative surrounding the war. President Vladimir Putin has emphasized the church's importance in reviving Russian spirituality and identity following the collapse of the Soviet Union. This partnership between the state and the church has been instrumental in legitimizing military actions, with church leaders framing the conflict in Ukraine as a holy mission. Patriarch Kirill I has publicly supported Russian soldiers, suggesting that their sacrifices cleanse them of sins, thus intertwining faith with national duty. This ideological alignment serves to bolster internal support for the war while fostering a sense of cultural unity among Russians.
