Ukraine-Russia war latest: Putin loses more than 8,000 troops as Zelensky warns Moscow trying to ‘intensify’ attacks
Russia has lost more than 8,000 troops in the past week alone as it launches new offensives in the improving spring weather, according to Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky.
“This week, we have observed attempts by the Russians to intensify their offensive efforts, taking advantage of more favourable weather conditions. As a result, the only tangible outcome for the Russian army has been an increase in their losses – more than 8,000 killed and seriously wounded Russian soldiers in just these seven days,” he said in his nightly address.
Zelensky also warned of a shortage of US-supplied Patriot air defence missiles if the Middle East conflict continues, saying Vladimir Putin will benefit from a “long war” in Iran.
He told the BBC that the US produces around 60 to 65 Patriot missiles a month, which equates to roughly 600 to 700 a year. He said 103 missiles were used in the Iran war on the first day alone.He said there will “definitely” be a deficit, and the question is now “when will all the stockpiles in the Middle East be exhausted”.
“For Putin, a long war in Iran is a plus,” as resources deplete, he added.
