Yuriy Butusov: Mobilization should involve commanders trusted on the front line

Yuriy Butusov, who voluntarily mobilized in May 2025 and now commands a drone company in the 23rd Assault Regiment of the Khartia Brigade, gave an interview to Ukrainska Pravda criticizing the current mobilization system. He argues that the main problem is not society's tolerance threshold but planning of combat operations, resources, and personnel. According to him, the front is flexible and drone development allows both stopping the enemy and breakthroughs, but command organization and tactics lag behind technological advances.

Butusov believes the current mobilization system is fragmented and lacks a chain of accountability. Commanders do not receive planned replenishment, and recruits are often sent to assault units without proper training. This breeds distrust and a high number of unauthorized absences. He calls for involving army corps and brigade commanders in the mobilization process, making them responsible for the quality of reinforcements, and ensuring soldiers feel obligation to a specific unit.

Butusov notes that compulsory mobilization has always been part of mass wars, but it must be systemic. He criticizes politicians and top leadership for failing to implement real changes, limiting themselves to declarations. In his view, real reform would start when commanders are personally accountable for the selection and training of mobilized soldiers from the moment they receive a summons until they carry out combat missions.