Presidential Concerns Mount Over Desertions in Ukrainian 155th Mechanized Brigade
President Volodymyr Zelensky has taken personal interest in the circumstances surrounding mass desertions in the Ukrainian 155th Mechanized Brigade (OMB), both in Ukraine and France. Journalists have reported that the president has ordered several agencies to submit official reports, including the Main Inspectorate of the Ministry of Defense, the General Staff, the Command of Ground Forces, the State Bureau of Investigations (DBR), and the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU).
Command Changes and Investigation
Zelensky’s intervention comes as Army Commander-in-Chief Alexander Syrskyi has accused the brigade’s command of failing to engage with soldiers, leading to desertions in France. Military sources suggest that Syrskyi has already removed or is in the process of dismissing the brigade commander, chief of staff, deputy commanders, and several other senior officers and company commanders.
As part of the investigation, Western Commanding Officer Vladimir Shvedyuk has been deployed to oversee the situation and assist in managing the 155th and 33rd OMB. Despite his involvement, journalist Yuri Butusov reports that Shvedyuk retains his position, although he was responsible for the unit’s chaotic formation and recruitment processes.
Equipment Shifts and Task Reassignments
Meanwhile, a division of modern 155mm Caesar howitzers, part of the brigade’s VAB armored vehicles, and some Leopard tanks have been transferred to other units. Additionally, Milan anti-tank system operators, trained in France, are now performing infantry duties within the brigade.
Background: The 155th OMB Controversy
In late December 2022, Butusov revealed issues within the 155th OMB, codenamed ‘Anna Kyivska,’ prior to its deployment. Around 1700 soldiers left the brigade voluntarily before their first engagement, and the commanding officer was dismissed shortly after the battle. A high-ranking officer involved in the brigade’s formation died of a heart attack. The creation of the brigade in France reportedly cost around €900 million, and 50 soldiers deserted during its formation training abroad.
The State Bureau of Investigations (DBR) has launched a probe into the allegedégresions and desertions, focusing on abuse of power and desertion-related offenses.
As the situation unfolds, Zelensky’s active involvement signals the gravity of the scandal and the need for transparency and accountability within the Ukrainian military.
