NextFin news, Kyiv, October 8, 2025 – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported on Wednesday evening that Russian troops have incurred over 12,000 casualties, including more than 7,200 killed, since the launch of Ukraine's counteroffensive near Dobropillia on August 21. This information was disclosed during Zelenskyy's evening address and follows a detailed briefing from Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrskyi.
"Since the beginning of the Dobropillia counteroffensive operation, the Russians have already suffered more than 12,000 losses, and that's only in the areas of Pokrovsk and Dobropillia," Zelenskyy said. He emphasized that out of these losses, over 7,200 are irreversible, indicating fatalities and permanent incapacitations.
The president highlighted that the briefing with Syrskyi lasted nearly an hour and covered all frontline sectors, brigade training, and logistical support. Special focus remains on the Dobropillia operation, which is a key counteroffensive effort by Ukrainian forces in the eastern front.
Zelenskyy also acknowledged the ongoing defensive and offensive operations in other critical areas, including Kupiansk and Novopavlivka, praising the efforts of various Ukrainian brigades and special forces units engaged in these sectors.
Additionally, Zelenskyy received a report from Vasyl Maliuk, Head of the Security Service of Ukraine (SSU), and approved plans for asymmetric responses to Russia's war efforts. He noted the active role of the SSU's Special Operations Centre A in frontline combat alongside other defense forces, particularly near Pokrovsk.
In his address, Zelenskyy mentioned logistical challenges faced by Russia, including a petrol shortage estimated at about 20%, forcing Russian authorities to tap into diesel reserves previously held for emergencies.
The Dobropillia counteroffensive, initiated on August 21, 2025, is part of Ukraine's broader military strategy to reclaim occupied territories in the eastern regions. The reported Russian casualties reflect the intensity and scale of the ongoing conflict in this area.
Sources: Ukrainian National News (UNN), Interfax-Ukraine, Ukrainska Pravda, official presidential address on October 8, 2025.
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