Archive · 13 Aug 2025
Ukrainian Army Struggles with Soviet-Era Command Structures
Ukraine's army, which fought well at first, is now using old-fashioned, strict ways of leading, like the Soviet Union did.
This means soldiers can't make their own decisions, and the leaders sometimes make them do risky things.
Many soldiers are getting hurt because of this.
Some officers are speaking out, and the leaders are trying to change, but it's a slow process.
They're trying to let the soldiers make some choices and to care more about keeping them safe.
This is making it hard for them to fight against Russia, which has many more soldiers.
Ukrainian military is criticized for reverting to Soviet-era command structures, causing casualties and morale issues.
Soldiers report rigid, top-down control, which stifles initiative and results in the refusal of tactical retreats.
Senior commanders are accused of prioritizing control over soldiers' lives, leading to unnecessary losses.
The shift back to Soviet-style tactics is seen as a hindrance to Ukraine's defense against Russia, which can afford higher losses.
Some units are starting to adopt Western-style command approaches with more autonomy, but the transition is slow.
- Who
- Ukrainian soldiers and officers, as well as senior military commanders.
- What
- Ukraine's military is facing criticism for adopting rigid Soviet-era command structures.
- When
- The issues have become apparent over the last three years, specifically after the initial months of the war.
- Where
- Eastern Ukraine, specifically the Donetsk region, and on the front lines.
- Why
- The issues are causing unnecessary casualties, undermining morale, and hindering Ukraine's ability to defend against Russia.
Criticism of Soviet Tactics
Defense of Current Tactics
Command Structure
Criticism of Soviet Tactics
Rigid top-down command structure hinders initiative and leads to unnecessary casualties.
Defense of Current Tactics
Strict control sometimes needed, improvements are being made.
Priorities
Criticism of Soviet Tactics
Senior commanders prioritizing control over soldiers' lives.
Defense of Current Tactics
Preserving soldiers’ lives and health is a key priority for leadership.
- General's Nickname
- "The Butcher"
- Training Course
- NATO concepts in the U.K.
- Current Chief Commander
- Gen. Oleksandr Syrskiy
- Total Casualties Estimate
- 400,000 (up to 100,000 killed)
- Russian Casualty Estimate
- Approaching one million (up to 250,000 killed)