Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has ordered an end to the creation of new combat brigades, directing that all newly mobilized troops reinforce existing units instead, journalist Yurii Butusov reported, citing his own sources.

“Three days ago, at a meeting of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief’s Staff, after hearing a report, Supreme Commander-in-Chief Volodymyr Zelensky decided to stop sending replenishment of personnel to form new brigades in the Defense Forces,” Butusov said.

The journalist explained that the decision was made after the 155th Mechanized Brigade, formed in May 2024, faced severe challenges, including poor leadership, desertions, and a lack of resources.

The 155th Brigade was intended to strengthen Ukraine’s forces with advanced weapons like Leopard 2 tanks and Caesar howitzers. However, the brigade struggled during its training and deployment.

Reports indicate that out of 5,800 troops, around 1,700 went absent without leave, and critical shortages of equipment, such as reconnaissance drones, limited its effectiveness. When deployed to the eastern city of Pokrovsk, the brigade reportedly suffered heavy losses and operational setbacks. 

Military officials and journalists criticized the decision to form new brigades while existing units were under-resourced.

Zelensky’s new policy aims to solve these issues by redirecting resources to replenish experienced combat brigades, many of which are operating with severe infantry shortages. These veteran units will now receive fresh recruits, ensuring that their experienced command structures and specialized personnel are supported.