Camilla Jessen
War fatigue reshapes Ukraine’s military strategy.
After years of conflict, Ukraine’s military is confronting new internal challenges alongside the battlefield fight. Fewer volunteers and rising desertions are forcing a rethink of how soldiers are recruited and trained.
According to reporting by AFP and Kyiv Post, the early surge of volunteers seen in 2022 has largely faded.
Many new recruits are now conscripted rather than joining willingly.
Instructors say motivation has declined, with fear and uncertainty replacing the initial wave of patriotism.
Fewer volunteers
Recruitment difficulties are linked to several concerns among the public.
These include the indefinite length of service, criticism of outdated military structures, and claims that frontline troops are sometimes treated as expendable.
“People have less desire to learn and more fears and negative expectations,” said an instructor identified as Buk.
At the same time, Ukraine continues to mobilise large numbers of troops each month, with President Volodymyr Zelensky stating figures of between 30,000 and 35,000.
Desertion concerns
Desertion has become a growing issue.
Data cited by Ukrainska Pravda indicates more than 230,000 criminal cases have been opened for soldiers leaving their units without permission since the start of the war.
Some recruits also report controversial recruitment methods. One conscript, identified as Sailor, said he was taken by recruiters while returning from a shop.
Training overhaul
In response, authorities are attempting to reform the system.
Training programmes have been extended from 30 to 51 days and now place greater emphasis on psychological resilience and real-world combat simulation.
Exercises include exposure to loud explosions, battlefield noise and high-pressure scenarios designed to mirror conditions at the front.
Instructors describe this evolving approach as “the key to survival.”
Defence officials say broader reforms are underway. Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has outlined plans to improve contracts, pay and the overall mobilisation process.
“We offer this to everyone: come join us, let’s build a new army together,” said Igor Obolensky of the Khartia Corps.
Despite these efforts, challenges remain. Training standards vary, and some centres report high dropout rates.
“Training has changed radically and continues to change, because combat conditions are also changing,” Buk said.
He added: “It is the key to survival. If we do not have development, analysis and learning from mistakes, this will lead to destruction,”
Sources: AFP, Kyiv Post, Ukrainska Pravda,
