9. The toll, which surpasses two-thirds of the Russian military's pre-war strength, reflects the severe cost of what Vladimir Putin calls "special military operation," Austin said at Ramstein Air Base in Germany. In November 2024 alone, Russia lost nearly 1,500 troops daily, a pace that has stretched its military resources to the breaking point. "Volunteers cannot make up for these stunning losses," Austin added. "The Kremlin has been reduced to scouring Russia’s jails and coercing contract soldiers."In a desperate bid to sustain its offensive, "Moscow has even rushed troops from North Korea into a war that they don’t belong in," Austin noted, calling it a clear sign of Putin’s growing desperation. Since joining the war in December, over 1,000 North Korean soldiers have reportedly died, according to Austin.