"This precedent could trigger changes": Military expert on the detention of former AFU commanders

He shared these remarks on Espreso TV.

"This is clearly a precedent that could lead to further developments, possibly shifting how military actions on the battlefield are assessed. But let’s be clear — this won’t end with the State Bureau of Investigation, the Security Service of Ukraine, or any other agency explaining to the public how it happened that the enemy advanced from Chonhar to Kherson in just one day. Or how, by the second day of the war, Russian forces were already near Kyiv. Resolving this requires political decisions," Lakiychuk emphasized.

He noted that experts consistently stress the need for a military justice system and a framework for investigating war crimes. However, Ukraine’s government continues to ignore these calls.

"When military defeats, errors, or war crimes are investigated, criminal justice professionals often lack the expertise required. This leads to flawed investigations and cases that eventually land in court," Lakiychuk said.

He further highlighted the long-standing systemic issues in troop management. Without a drastic overhaul, these problems will persist.

"If we’re unable to reform the command system, it’s either because political will is absent or, if it exists, it’s simply not being implemented," Lakiychuk concluded.

• Meanwhile, investigators from the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) and the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) have detained three former AFU commanders. They are accused of negligence that allowed Russian forces to seize part of the Kharkiv region in May 2024.