Today's D Brief: Russia bombs Ukraine neighborhood; Sudan evac update; A-10s’ new weapon; Army grounds helos; And a bit more.
Defense OneDec 24, 2022
The Facts
Russia is estimated to have suffered at least 100K casualties, including 20K killed, in only five months of fighting since December, the White House said on Monday.
John Kirby, the White House National Security Council spokesman, told reporters the estimate is based on newly-declassified American intelligence. He did not detail how the figures were derived and they cannot be independently confirmed.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
The White House estimates show that Russia has had a devastating few months of fighting — an acceleration from the beginning of the war and more losses than some of the bloodiest battles of World War II. Russia is on the back foot as Ukraine's counteroffensive approaches.
Establishment-critical narrative
If the numbers are to be trusted, the Russia-Ukraine war would be one of the bloodiest in modern history. The problem is that all parties have an interest in minimizing their losses while exaggerating those of their enemies. Getting accurate casualty data is fraught with difficulties and these numbers should not be accepted blindly.
