The General Staff of Ukraine has hurried to respond to high-profile accusations made by the commander of one of the units of the 47th separate mechanized brigade, who publicly stated concerns about mistreatment of combat tasks and unnecessary human losses
In response to this resonant publication, the military leadership promised to conduct a thorough investigation of the situation and to make an appropriate decision, which, among other things, should address the internal conflict issues and reduce risks for personnel. According to sources within the General Staff, a special working group has been established based on the order of the Chief of the General Staff. The group's task is to comprehensively investigate the circumstances described by the battalion commander of the 47th brigade — Oleksandr Shyrshyn — and to identify all possible deficiencies in leadership and the execution of combat tasks. Specifically, the team will conduct a detailed analysis of the orders and directives issued by higher command authorities during the period when the losses and difficulties faced by the unit became known. The main goal is to assess their appropriateness and alignment with the actual combat situation to prevent similar incidents in the future and to ensure more effective command during active hostilities. The General Staff’s press service added that the results of the investigation will form the basis for further decisions aimed at improving the situation within units, increasing discipline and motivation among military personnel, and reducing risks of internal conflicts and irretrievable losses. It is worth recalling that since autumn 2024, the 47th separate mechanized brigade has been carrying out combat missions in the Kurshyn region. Battalion commander Shyrshyn, who was appointed to this position in July 2024, made his high-profile appeal on May 17. In his statement, he openly accused the command of poorly thought-out or unclear tasks leading to unnecessary and fatal losses of Ukrainian soldiers. He reinforced his appeal with a report in which he requested to be relieved of his duties due to excessive responsibility and systemic management shortcomings. This appeal sparked wide discussion within the military community and society at large, raising questions about the organization of combat operations, management procedures, and the accountability of the higher command for the lives and health of soldiers. Authorities promise not to leave such issues unaddressed, but for now, the main priority is to conduct an objective investigation and develop systemic measures to prevent similar cases in the future.