Zaluzhnyi's Unauthorized Moves: How Ukraine's Military Command Prepared for the Invasion

Ukrainian Military Actions Before the Invasion

According to ХВИЛЯ: On February 23, 2022, the eve of Russia's full-scale invasion, Ukraine's Armed Forces (ZSU) command, led by Valerii Zaluzhnyi, took a series of proactive measures without official authorization. These actions, taken in a climate of political hesitation, were crucial for Ukraine's initial defense. Mines were laid on the Black Sea floor to prevent a potential naval assault on Odesa, while certain units were ordered to redeploy to more advantageous positions. Furthermore, throughout February, high-level ZSU command staff conducted war games simulating various invasion scenarios, including a direct assault on Kyiv.

During this period, the declaration of martial law was delayed, despite Zaluzhnyi's persistent calls for its implementation since January 2022. On February 22, the National Security and Defense Council voted only for a state of emergency, which significantly restricted the military command's options. Any large-scale troop movement without the president's sanction would have been considered illegal and conspicuous, yet most field commanders agreed on the necessity of these preparatory steps.

“All of this was strictly forbidden. Had the invasion not happened, we would have been put on trial. But the majority of commanders agreed we had no choice, and they carried out the order.” - A Ukrainian Armed Forces General

In a critical intelligence coup, a lengthy briefing was held on February 18 for Kyrylo Budanov, head of the Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR). A Western representative detailed Russian plans to seize Hostomel Airport. This intelligence directly contributed to organizing the defense of this strategic asset. Thus, the ZSU command's actions on the invasion's eve were focused on preparing for potential attacks, despite the absence of formal orders.

The Critical Importance of Pre-Invasion Preparations

These events underscore the vital role played by Ukraine's military leadership in countering Russian aggression from the outset. Despite facing significant political and legal constraints, their decisions to prepare for a potential invasion proved critically important for Ukraine's defensive readiness. Their understanding of the risks and willingness to act under extreme pressure laid the groundwork for the subsequent strategy to resist the aggressor.