Threat to Internal Stability in the Ukrainian Army Due to Neglected Internal Issues
Amid rising cases of soldiers abandoning their units without permission, military experts warn of an urgent need to strengthen internal efforts to improve discipline and motivation among personnel.
Lieutenant Colonel Maxim Zhorin, commander of a unit within the Third Army Corps, emphasized in his Telegram channel that most decisions are aimed at addressing the consequences of such incidents rather than tackling their root causes.
One of the primary issues he highlighted is the lack of transparent and effective mechanisms for transferring soldiers between units, which often drives personnel to leave their posts voluntarily due to frustration with bureaucratic procedures.
Zhorin stressed the importance of creating clear, functional processes that allow service members to choose their places of duty and prove themselves effectively, thereby reducing the incidence of unauthorized discharges.
He also pointed out that the problem’s prevalence varies across units—from very low in some to alarmingly high in others, even when working on the same front line—indicating that a more systemic approach is needed.
This includes establishing a solid sergeant rank, fostering respectful relations with soldiers, and elevating the authority of commanders, all aimed at building a disciplined and motivated military.
The colonel called for genuine efforts, not just formal decisions, emphasizing that Ukraine’s military potential depends on systemic reforms and responsible leadership.
Ultimately, he concluded that bureaucratic barriers must be minimized and conditions created for soldiers to be treated with dignity, while commanders earn the trust necessary to eliminate the proliferation of unauthorized leave issues.