Strong leadership is essential in any military force.
Commanders make critical decisions that affect the success of operations and the safety of their troops.
In times of war, stability within the ranks is just as important as weapons and supplies.
A sudden change in leadership can disrupt operations, create uncertainty, and weaken morale.
Soldiers must trust their leaders, especially when they face life-and-death situations on the battlefield.
Ukrainian soldiers from the 48th Separate Assault Battalion have spoken out against the removal of their commander, Lenur Isliamov.
A Direct Threat
In a video message directed at Ukraine’s top military leader, General Oleksandr Syrskyi, they expressed their frustration over the decision.
The battalion is currently stationed in Pokrovsk, a key logistical center in the Donetsk region.
Russian forces have increased their attacks in this area, making it a critical battleground, according to Hotnews.
The soldiers explained that they had been moved to this new position ten days earlier after spending almost a year defending another important location.
Soon after their arrival, they learned that their commander had been replaced.
The troops see this leadership change as a direct threat to their effectiveness.
They believe that removing a commander at such a critical time weakens trust and disrupts their ability to function as a unit.
Isliamov was praised for forming a battalion made up mostly of volunteers.
The soldiers credited him with leading successful missions and reclaiming Ukrainian territory. They argued that his experience and leadership were vital to their past successes.
They also raised concerns about the lack of intelligence updates since their redeployment.
Without proper information, they feel unprepared for the challenges they face in their new position.
Ukraine’s military leadership has not responded to the concerns of the 48th Battalion. This is not the first time Ukrainian troops have defended their commanders.
In 2024, soldiers from the 24th Mechanized Brigade opposed the dismissal of their leader, Ivan Holishevskyi.
Later, officers from the 80th Air Assault Brigade called for the retention of their commander, Emil Ishkulov.
