In a recent interview, Kyrylo Veres, commander of Ukraine's K2 drone brigade, asserted that the Ukrainian military's operational targets include a staggering figure of 50,000 dead Russian soldiers each month. Veres pointed out that the expansion of the Russian army is hampered by a lack of experienced officers, which has led to inexperienced commanders being promoted too quickly. He noted that the command structure now often favors technology, with robotic systems increasingly taking over roles traditionally held by human soldiers. This shift has significant implications for both sides of the conflict, as it reflects broader trends in modern warfare.

The challenges facing the Russian military leadership were further detailed by Veres, who explained that the standard ratio of frontline troops to support personnel is twelve to one. This indicates a heavy reliance on logistical support, which poses operational risks if frontline units lack experienced leaders. Historically, military promotions in the Russian system required years of experience, but the urgency of the conflict has compressed timelines significantly, potentially creating a gap in crucial battlefield leadership. Veres believes this rapid promotion at the officer level can lead to detrimental effects within the ranks.

As the war continues to evolve, the reliance on advanced military technology such as drone warfare and automated systems seems to be a turning point in the Ukraine conflict. Veres, whose own journey from a beach bar manager before the 2014 Crimea annexation to a high-ranking military officer exemplifies this shift. He is now leading one of Ukraine’s most technologically advanced units, indicating the significant changes within the Ukrainian military structure and strategy, driven in part by the necessity of adapting to the changing landscape of warfare.