Ukraine’s New Defence Minister Outlines Strategy to Intensify Pressure on Russian Forces

Ukraine’s newly appointed Defence Minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, has stated that one of his ministry’s strategic objectives is to significantly increase the rate of Russian military losses, describing a target of inflicting up to 50,000 casualties per month as part of Ukraine’s broader wartime strategy.

Fedorov made the remarks during a meeting with journalists, where he said Ukrainian forces had confirmed approximately 35,000 Russian troop losses in the previous month, citing video evidence collected through Ukraine’s expanding drone and data‑tracking systems. According to reporting by RBC‑Ukraine and Kyiv Post, he framed the goal as part of a data‑driven approach to weaken Russia’s ability to sustain its offensive operations.

Fedorov emphasised that Ukraine’s assessment of Russian losses is based on detailed verification mechanisms, including the “Army of Drones” programme and an internal ePoints system designed to track battlefield outcomes and identify effective units and technologies. He also highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance real‑time mission control for drones, expand drone assault units, and reduce reliance on foreign‑made unmanned systems.

The minister argued that Russia is facing increasing challenges in replenishing manpower, though this claim reflects Ukraine’s assessment and has not been independently verified by international observers.

The comments come amid continued Russian missile and drone strikes across Ukraine, including recent attacks that damaged energy infrastructure and left thousands of Kyiv residents without heat or water during freezing temperatures. The war, now in its fourth year, has seen both sides intensify their use of drones, electronic warfare, and long‑range strikes.

Fedorov’s remarks reflect Ukraine’s strategic shift toward technology‑driven warfare and an effort to maintain international attention and support as the conflict continues. His stated objective underscores the scale and intensity of ongoing hostilities, affecting millions of civilians and shaping regional security dynamics.

The minister’s comments signal Ukraine’s intent to escalate pressure on Russian forces through technological innovation and targeted operations. They also highlight the continued human cost of the conflict and the reliance on advanced systems to shape battlefield outcomes.