Ukrainian service members and veterans call for systemic military reforms

Ukrainian military personnel and veterans have raised concerns regarding operational, logistical, and administrative challenges within the armed forces, urging systemic reforms.

Frontline surgeon Bohdan Zhuravel criticized the lack of regular troop rotations, warning that indefinite deployments without replacement severely strain service members. In addition, drone unit commander Yurii Butusov reported ongoing supply deficits, stating that unit leaders must independently secure essential equipment due to a lack of institutional accountability on the front lines.

Critique has also focused on internal administrative procedures. An investigation by Ukrainska Pravda detailed disparities in the military awards system, noting that commendations are disproportionately allocated to command personnel rather than frontline soldiers. Meanwhile, serviceman Pavlo Kazarin argued that updating mobilization deferments and military medical commissions is necessary to ensure greater equity across the armed forces.

Sources: Liga net, NV, Радіо Свобода, Українська правда