Article

As of January 2026, Russia has lost 1.2 million troops in Ukraine and is struggling to maintain a credible military presence, resorting to foreign troops from North Korea and Cuba. Historical issues such as outdated equipment and a reliance on conscripts have hindered Russia's military modernization efforts.

Current troop numbers stand at approximately 850,000 due to recruitment challenges. Despite increased defense spending, many Russian forces remain equipped with pre-1991 Cold War technology, limiting their combat effectiveness against well-trained Ukrainian forces.

Training exercises revealed significant deficiencies, and the Russian military is not prepared for extensive operations. The situation reflects a long-standing historical tension with Ukraine, where Russian-speaking populations largely support Ukrainian independence.