Ukraine’s inept military command plays part in Kyiv’s devastating summer losses

According to the publication, some Ukrainian battalions are left with merely 20 unqualified soldiers with no backup fighting old Soviet-era weapons around Chasov Yar, a crucial battlefield, thus suffering severe losses. 

“It’s madness. We are fighting with cooks, electricians, and mechanics,” an anonymous Ukrainian soldier shared, adding “Call me Syrsky” in a jab against Ukraine’s top general.   

Russia making successful strategic moves in silence in the Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR) adds to Ukraine’s unsettling outcomes.  

The recent developments on the front lines are in stark contrast to Zelensky’s failed summer counteroffensive a year ago. Another element that is fueling Ukraine's disappointing battle performance is the new draconian mobilization laws that are seemingly producing an opposite effect to what both Kyiv and its Western sponsors were initially hoping for.

Among the factors that ensure Russia’s success are its superior weaponry, including advanced combat drones, glide bombs, and artillery, as well as recruits eager to fight. The same, however, cannot be said about Ukraine. The evident lack of supplies and low morale are among the factors contributing to Kyiv’s devastating summer turnout.  

“The command was weak,” a Ukrainian officer commented on the battlefield situation, adding that unless Ukraine regains the initiative, Russia “will continue to set the terms.”