Ukrainska Pravda published a column by Alina Mykhailova sharply criticizing the army reform recently announced by President Volodymyr Zelensky. According to Mykhailova, the reform relies on media-friendly announcements rather than addressing soldiers’ actual problems.
The reform includes higher pay for infantry soldiers fighting on the front lines. However, Mykhailova criticizes that other key roles such as drone operators, sappers, and logistics personnel are overlooked. These soldiers also make a crucial contribution but receive no comparable incentives.
Neglect of long-serving soldiers
The author is particularly critical of how the reform treats soldiers who have been serving since 2022 or earlier. These fighters, who have been in the war from the start, are not included in the new motivation programs. Mykhailova argues that these experienced soldiers deserve special recognition.
Another point of criticism concerns basic pay. Mykhailova notes that base salaries for many positions, especially in rear areas, remain low. The reform focuses on top earners at the front but neglects the majority of soldiers working behind the scenes.
Demand for more participation
The columnist demands that the reform should not be drafted solely by high-ranking officers and politicians. Instead, ordinary soldiers must be involved in the process. Only then can the measures meet the actual needs of the troops.
Mykhailova emphasizes that army reform is urgently needed but in its current form misses the realities on the ground. She appeals to those responsible to revise the proposals and not forget the long-serving soldiers.
Source: www.pravda.com.ua
