Why Russia Is Losing the War
In an opinion piece for 'Ukrainska Pravda,' Denis Prokopenko, commander of the National Guard's 1st Corps 'Azov,' outlined the fundamental causes of Russia's failure in the conflict. He characterized the war as a clash between two military paradigms: Ukraine's network-based model and Russia's rigid top-down hierarchy. According to the brigadier general, this is not merely a confrontation of armies but a decisive test of two diametrically opposed systems.
Prokopenko emphasized that Ukraine’s system is a network model built on trust, where changes are driven by ordinary soldiers, sergeants, and junior officers. It relies on decentralized command, echoing a modern version of the German Auftragstaktik concept. In contrast, he described Russia’s system as a rigid Soviet-style vertical structure, where every move is dictated from above. This setup prioritizes political control over the military, valuing loyalty over competence, and results in a chronic underdevelopment of junior leadership.
How the Ukrainian Army Is Adapting to New Challenges
In his column, Prokopenko also noted that enemy equipment and depots are being destroyed at distances of up to 250 km. In the second half of 2025, the adversary breached the front near Dobropillia, creating a gap up to 15 km wide and 20 km deep, but the offensive was halted, lost positions were reclaimed, and hundreds of Russians were taken prisoner. The general pointed out that Western partners are learning from Ukraine and eagerly adopting its combat experience.
Additionally, in March 2026, the corps marked its first anniversary. As part of innovative approaches, blood delivery to the front lines via drones and evacuation of the wounded using ground robotic systems were introduced. These changes highlight the Ukrainian army’s adaptation to the evolving challenges of the war.
'This is a dangerous mistake,' Prokopenko concluded, stressing the importance of understanding these differences in military systems.
Prokopenko’s observations underscore the critical role of strategic adaptation in modern warfare, where technology and organizational models can significantly influence outcomes. By implementing new tactics and leveraging advanced technologies, the Ukrainian military demonstrates its readiness to confront battlefield challenges. At the same time, his critique of Russia's military structure points to systemic issues that may hinder the effectiveness of their efforts in the conflict.
As the dynamics of warfare continue to evolve, Ukraine's position as a key player in the arms market is becoming increasingly significant. This shift not only underscores the country's resilience but also highlights the growing reliance of Western nations on Ukrainian military innovations. To explore how Ukraine has transitioned into a vital arms supplier for both the United States and Europe, read more about this development here.