From: Transform Ukraine By Douglas Landro / March 4, 2025
Summary of the Day – March 3, 2025
The war in Ukraine has reached a critical juncture as Russia builds a significant numerical advantage with 620,000 troops now deployed — amid growing signs of battlefield adaptation and escalating drone warfare. Meanwhile, the U.S.-Ukraine diplomatic relationship faces unprecedented strain as President Trump suspends military aid following a tense White House confrontation with President Zelensky. European allies rush to fill the void with proposed defense investments and peacekeeping plans, even as Russia advances in multiple sectors while Ukraine struggles to hold ground.
The Numbers Game: Russia’s Growing Military Footprint
Ukrainian military intelligence has confirmed that Russia’s combat presence has swelled to approximately 620,000 soldiers operating within Ukraine and Kursk Oblast — an increase of about 40,000 personnel compared to late 2024. According to Ukrainian Military Intelligence Deputy Head Major General Vadym Skibitskyi, roughly 200,000 of these troops are actively engaged on the frontlines, with an additional 35,000 Rosgvardia forces securing rear areas and potentially serving as a second defensive line.
This buildup follows Moscow’s successful recruitment efforts in 2024, when Russian authorities exceeded their annual quota by recruiting 440,000 personnel — 10,000 more than planned. The January 2025 quota was similarly surpassed by 7%, revealing the Kremlin’s determination to maintain numerical superiority despite mounting economic pressures.
Voice of Ukraine 