Russian military losses in the war against Ukraine have been rising at their fastest pace since the full-scale invasion began in 2022, according to an analysis by BBC News Russian, as diplomatic efforts led by the United States intensified this year.
Over the past 10 months, the number of confirmed Russian deaths has grown sharply. BBC data show that about 40 percent more obituaries of Russian soldiers were published in 2025 compared with the previous year, coinciding with renewed pressure from US President Donald Trump’s administration to reach a peace deal.
The BBC, working with independent outlet Mediazona and volunteers, has so far verified nearly 160,000 names of people killed while fighting on Russia’s side. The figures are based on official reports, media publications, social media posts, and newly identified graves and memorials.
However, the real toll is believed to be far higher. Military experts consulted by the BBC estimate that confirmed deaths may represent only 45 to 65 percent of the actual number, suggesting total Russian fatalities could range between 243,000 and 352,000.
The BBC noted that obituary data, while preliminary, offer insight into the changing intensity of the conflict. In 2025, daily obituary counts peaked during key moments of Russia-US diplomatic engagement, including direct talks between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin and later discussions around a proposed peace framework.
An average of more than 320 obituaries per day were recorded in October and November, about double the daily average in 2024, the analysis said.
Observers say the Kremlin has sought to make territorial gains on the battlefield to strengthen its position in negotiations. A senior aide to President Putin recently said Russia’s “recent successes” had positively influenced talks with Washington.
The data also show a growing share of casualties among so-called volunteers — civilians who signed military contracts after the invasion began. While only about 15 percent of Russian military deaths were volunteers a year ago, the figure has risen to roughly one in three in 2025.
Local authorities across Russia have reportedly intensified recruitment drives, offering large financial incentives and targeting people facing debt or criminal charges, allowing Moscow to offset heavy losses without announcing a new mass mobilisation.
Despite the rising death toll, Russian officials say recruitment continues to outpace losses. NATO, however, estimates that tens of thousands of Russian soldiers are being killed each month.
Ukraine has also suffered heavy casualties in the war, with both sides continuing to pay a high human cost as fighting drags on and peace efforts remain uncertain.
With inputs from BBC