Kyiv is suffering massive losses, approaching catastrophic levels: Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed that Kyiv's counter-offensive against Russian positions in Ukraine has resulted in massive losses for Kyiv.

He said that the offensive targeted multiple sectors of the front and described the losses as catastrophic. "Their losses are approaching a level that could be described as catastrophic."

According to him, Kyiv had lost 160 tanks and 360 armored vehicles, accounting for approximately 25 to 30 percent of the equipment delivered from abroad. In contrast, Russia reportedly lost 54 tanks, some of which could be repaired and brought back into operation. "The enemy was not successful in any area. Russia suffered 10 times fewer losses than those of the armed forces of Ukraine."

After months of anticipation, Ukraine has recently launched its offensive to reclaim territory from Russian forces. It reported initial gains over the weekend and on Monday, while Russia claimed to have repelled all attacks. "This is a massive counter-offensive, using strategic reserves that were prepared for this task."

Ukraine's offensive, which started on June 4, was led in at least three sectors: Shakhtar and Vremenski in the east, and Zaporizhzhia in the south, said the Russian President. The counter-offensive was triggered by a series of attacks on Russian territory, including in the border region of Belgorod.

Putin acknowledged the need to strengthen the border and emphasized that Russian forces in Ukraine were facing shortages in military equipment such as high-precision ammunition, communications equipment, and drones. "During the course of the special military operation, it became clear that many things were lacking. High-precision ammunition, communications equipment, drones, etc... We have them, but unfortunately, there is not enough."