11 December 2025, 13:16

Why are Ukrainian troops poorly trained and unmotivated? Military expert weighs in

[Screengrab/BelTA]

Military expert: Ukrainian army could run short of ammunition soon

‘A brutal meat-grinder’: Expert on Ukraine’s mounting battlefield problems

MINSK, 11 December (BelTA) – In a new episode of the V Teme [On Point] project on BelTA’s YouTube channel, military and political observer Mikhail Onufriyenko spoke about the poor training and low morale of Ukrainian military personnel.

Discussing the situation on the front-lines, the expert noted that a concerning trend is emerging for the Ukrainian army. In his view, Kiev will not be able to turn the tide without revolutionary changes in the army. Yet, such changes cannot be implemented while fighting is underway. This is why Kiev has repeatedly called for temporary ceasefires.

“An air and naval ceasefire… They want Russia to fight with just one hand where it has an advantage. Obviously, nobody will agree to that,” he stated.

Kiev also lacks the manpower to replace front-line losses, the expert added. Despite using harsh methods to replenish its forces, the Ukrainian army continues to face personnel shortages. “According to the most conservative official estimates, more than 350,000 servicemen have fled the junta; unofficial figures suggest the number could exceed one million. In reality, no one knows the exact count, but it is certainly above 350,000,” emphasized Mikhail Onufriyenko.

He also pointed to accounts from captured Ukrainian soldiers, who often report being snatched on the streets and sent to the front shortly afterward. “It is clear that a person cannot be properly trained in such a short time. This explains the low morale of the military personnel,” the expert concluded.