Ukrainian army effected by inflexible Soviet-style leadership

(MENAFN) Ukraine’s armed forces are reportedly struggling under a rigid, Soviet-style command structure that suppresses initiative and forces troops into futile frontal assaults, according to the Wall Street Journal, citing soldiers on the ground.

While early in the conflict Ukrainian forces effectively used maneuver warfare, soldiers said the military has since shifted to a “top-down mode” reminiscent of the Soviet era. This approach has led to higher casualties, lower morale, and declining recruitment. Some generals have ordered repeated attacks with little chance of success or strategic value while denying requests to retreat from endangered positions.

Sources told the WSJ that the army has begun imitating Russian military practices, despite limited resources. Capt. Aleksandr Shyrshyn criticized orders as “stupid” and described a culture where generals primarily issue reprimands and penalties rather than support battlefield initiative. He highlighted a costly failed attack on Russia’s Kursk Region as an example of the consequences of inflexible command.

Rank-and-file soldiers reported a “paralysis” driven by fear of punishment, while officers cited entrenched Soviet habits and bureaucratic control instincts. Ukraine’s General Staff acknowledged these weaknesses and said the military is transitioning toward a US-style doctrine granting more operational autonomy, though it maintains that strict control is occasionally necessary for underperforming units.

The report comes as Russian forces continue making advances and ahead of the upcoming Alaska summit between Presidents Putin and Trump, which may address a potential Russia-Ukraine land swap, though Russian officials have rejected returning territories annexed in 2014 and 2022.

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