Infantry Must Be a Top Priority, Not Disposable, Says Third Corps Commander Biletskyi.

Rethinking the Role of Infantry in Ukraine's Armed Forces

According to Novyny.live: Andrii Biletskyi, commander of Ukraine's Third Corps, has called for a fundamental shift in how infantry soldiers are perceived and treated within the military. He argues that infantry troops should be viewed as a unit's most valuable asset rather than as expendable resources. Biletskyi stresses the urgent need for a change in mindset among commanders, emphasizing that infantrymen are not just soldiers but the critical backbone of any brigade or corps.

The value of human life on the front lines has been a pressing issue since 2014, but it became even more critical with the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Biletskyi describes infantry as both the most precious and the most scarce military profession, requiring special attention and support. According to him,

“an infantryman should receive the highest social guarantees and the highest financial compensation”

Biletskyi stressed that changing the perception of the infantry is essential for improving the effectiveness of military units. He believes that

“we need to change the mentality of many commanders, convincing them that infantry is not primarily a consumable, but the most valuable asset of any brigade, corps, or any unit”

It is worth noting that the Russian army has suffered enormous losses at the front in recent months, underscoring the importance of training and supporting Ukrainian troops. Thus, a shift in attitude toward the infantry could be a crucial step in strengthening Ukraine's armed forces.

The Need for Stronger Social Protections for Service Members

Changing how infantry is valued within the Ukrainian army is key to improving combat readiness and overall military effectiveness. Assigning infantry soldiers to central roles in operations can not only reduce casualties but also enhance broader war-fighting strategies. Providing strong support and social guarantees for service members can help build a more motivated and efficient force, which is especially vital in today's conflict environment.