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The situation worsened considerably with the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The conflict led to substantial military casualties—estimates suggest over 219,000 soldiers killed, with total casualties possibly exceeding 700,000—including wounded and missing. These losses, primarily of young men in their prime reproductive years, accelerate the demographic downturn. The war also triggered a significant brain drain, with approximately 800,000 educated and skilled Russians fleeing the country to avoid conscription or protest. This exodus depletes Russia’s innovative workforce and further hampers economic prospects.