The Ukraine war in numbers: People, territory, money
Al Jazeera
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Four years into Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the conflict has become one of the deadliest and most costly in modern history. With over two million military casualties, widespread civilian deaths, massive territorial losses, and unprecedented economic sanctions, the war has reshaped global security and economies. As of February 2024, estimates suggest that Russia has suffered around 1.2 million casualties, including at least 325,000 deaths since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022. Ukraine’s losses are similarly staggering, with up to 600,000 casualties and an estimated 140,000 deaths reported by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). The war has also claimed over 15,000 Ukrainian civilians, with 2023 being the deadliest year yet.
The human toll extends beyond battlefield losses. Over five million Ukrainians have been displaced internally or forced to flee the country, with nearly five million seeking refuge in Europe. Additionally, thousands of children have been abducted from occupied territories and taken to Russia for re-education. Ukraine has lost about a quarter of its pre-war population, leaving many communities shattered and unable to rebuild. The war’s impact on civilians continues to worsen, with Russian drone strikes and occupation activities inflicting further suffering.
Territorially, Russia once controlled nearly 26% of Ukrainian territory at its peak in March 2022, including the annexed Crimea region. However, Ukraine has managed to reclaim some areas through its defense-in-depth strategy. The conflict’s economic burden is immense, with Russia facing unprecedented sanctions that have strained its economy and isolated it on the global stage. These measures, along with internal issues like poor tactics, corruption, and low morale, have contributed to Russia’s high casualties and struggles on the battlefield.
The war’s long-term effects are deeply concerning for global security. The scale of human suffering, territorial disputes, and economic upheaval highlight the fragility of international relations and the potential for further destabilization in Europe. As the conflict enters its fifth
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/23/2026