Serhiy Sternenko hosted a live interview with serviceman and former MP Ihor Lutsenko, focusing on the critical systemic issues facing the Ukrainian Armed Forces (AFU). Drawing on his experience since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2014, Lutsenko emphasized that the main challenge is the rising number of instances of AWOL (Absent Without Official Leave) and the overall weakening of the army's personnel.
The causes of the AWOL increase were discussed: from exhaustion and lack of career prospects for soldiers, to administrative obstacles with transfers between units and out-of-date training curricula. Many mobilized are not fit for service and quickly drop out, especially in units with ineffective leadership. Lutsenko highlighted the need to rethink the allocation of new soldiers and to introduce better oversight and evaluation of commanders.
The discussion also covered the lack of responsibility among senior and mid-level commanders, absence of effective HR measures, and the army’s insufficient adaptation to a protracted war. Lutsenko called for reforming leadership in the AFU, reorienting towards modern technologies (especially drones), and increasing autonomy and funding for brigades. Special emphasis was placed on empowering trainers and overhauling the preparation system.
During the stream, fundraising was held to support AFU with new drones: participants could win the "Busko" knife by donating at least 300 UAH. The hosts encouraged viewers to support the army financially in general, noting that technological equipment plays a decisive role on the modern battlefield.
The interview concluded with priority steps for the military-political leadership: personnel changes, revising recruitment and assignment principles, enhancing leadership, and transforming the army’s training approach.
