NATO made a mistake in training Ukrainian counter-offensive units, – Politico, citing soldiers fighting in Ukraine

Veterans claim that NATO did not prepare them for a real war.  They say the gap between theory and practice is responsible for the loss of lives.

Ukrainian fighters believe that they could receive more effective training from Ukrainians who have actual combat experience and know the terrain.

It appears that the Ukrainian soldiers’ training was based more on what NATO forces have been most accustomed to in recent years; counterinsurgency, with some American-style ‘show and thrill’ thrown in.  And while Ukrainians praise basic infantry training in tactics, reconnaissance […] they cite a lack of training in drone and mine awareness, explosive ordnance disposal and defensive combat.

Standard NATO tactics involve massive airstrikes, artillery support and mine clearance before an infantry attack but the Ukrainian Armed Forces did not have the necessary equipment for this.  Additionally, when it came to the use of drones and how to combat enemy drones, they were provided with limited training, likely due to NATO’s lack of adaptation to the technology.

Critics now believe the counter-offensive is at a critical stage, especially as the monsoon and winter approach, which will make military operations more challenging.