Broken Families Push Soldier to Propose Leave Over Cash as Military Incentive

Defense Ministry Reform Under Fire: Motivation Crisis Among Troops

According to Главком: The author criticizes Ukraine's Defense Ministry reform, pointing to serious issues with troop motivation. Over the past seven years, he argues, the reform has mainly been associated with 'handing out money.' For volunteer soldiers who have served since 2022, the biggest challenge is being unable to see their families-not low pay. The status of being a volunteer has lost its meaning, and the author suggests several changes that could positively impact morale.

Now in his fifth year under a contract 'until martial law ends,' the author has not seen his own children in four years. This experience is shared by many service members who, unfortunately, cannot maintain contact with their loved ones. A fellow officer, constantly deployed to combat zones, faces similar family struggles.

'Over these years I’ve barely seen my family, and it has fallen apart. My wife found a new husband, and my children saw me at most once or twice a year,' the officer reports.

Proposals to Boost Morale

Instead of extra cash bonuses of 100,000–200,000 hryvnias, the author proposes granting one day of leave for every two days spent on the front lines.

'If two days on the front line earned you one extra day of leave, that would be more motivating than an extra 100,000–200,000 hryvnias,' the author emphasizes.

He believes such an initiative could improve the mental state of troops who suffer from a lack of family contact. Additionally, the author suggests focusing financial incentives on attracting foreigners to serve in the Ukrainian army. He stresses that volunteers should receive recognition not just through financial payments but also through the restoration of their status.

• Volunteers should be recognized and stand out. Not with money. But with status.

In short, the Defense Ministry reform needs a rethink of how to motivate soldiers, especially by introducing new leave options and restoring the significance of volunteer status. It is crucial to consider the personal stories of service members who endure the consequences of prolonged deployment in order to find effective solutions for improving their lives.

The reform of Ukraine's Defense Ministry and the related motivation problems among troops are urgent issues that require immediate attention. Many soldiers who volunteered for service face serious hardships affecting their psychological and emotional well-being. The proposed changes to the leave system and status recognition could significantly impact the lives of military personnel and their families, which in turn could boost the overall morale of the army.

As the discussion on soldier morale intensifies, recent changes in military policies could significantly impact service members' lives. For instance, the newly announced post-contract deferment regulations aim to address some of the pressing challenges faced by troops, particularly regarding family separation and mental health. These reforms, alongside proposals for better leave incentives, highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to troop welfare.