Russia's Invasion of Ukraine

Russia's Assault on Ukraine

• Russia's assault on Ukraine began on February 24, with Russian President Vladimir Putin falsely claiming Ukraine threatened Russia's security.
• The attack was entirely unprovoked.

Human Toll

• As of mid-May, over 3,000 Ukrainian civilians, including 235 children, have been killed by Russian bombs and soldiers.
• The actual number is likely much higher, but unknown until the fighting stops.
• Russians have been breaking international rules of conflict, destroying residences, schools, hospitals, factories, and shelters, and targeting women, children, and the elderly.

Refugees and Displaced People

• Over 5.1 million people have fled Ukraine, seeking refuge in nearby countries, Europe, and North America.
• Another 7.7 million have left their homes but remain in the country.
• These refugees and displaced people make up more than one-quarter of Ukraine's pre-war population of 44 million.

Russian Military Losses

• About 40,000 Russian soldiers have been wounded or killed out of an invasion force of around 150,000.
• These losses are a major setback for Mr. Putin, who expected to be victorious in just days.

Ukraine's Response

• Ukraine has shown great grit and resilience, determined to beat back the invaders.
• Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelensky, has declared "We are fighting for our children's freedom and therefore we will win."
• Many Western nations have rallied behind Ukraine, providing intelligence, weapons, and financial aid to help the besieged country.

Mariupol's Last Stand

• Mariupol, a city in southeastern Ukraine, has been all but destroyed by Russian forces and bombs.
• Russia controlled the city as of May 10, with its residents having no food, medicine, and other necessities for weeks.
• The Russians have two main motives for capturing Mariupol: creating a land corridor between the Crimean Peninsula and the Donbas Region, and taking over the export hub to strangle Ukraine's economy.

Future of the War

• Military specialists believe Mr. Putin wants to strengthen his army's positions in southeastern Ukraine, expecting more strikes on civilian targets in this area.
• He is focusing on two eastern sections: Luhansk and Donetsk, running from Mariupol in the south.