Nadiya Savchenko explains why new recruits in the Armed Forces of Ukraine must first serve in the infantry

Mandatory stage of combat experience

Nadiya Savchenko, a servicewoman, spoke about a key principle in the training of personnel in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. According to her, any person who comes to serve — whether by contract or through mobilisation — initially ends up in infantry units.

This approach means that acquiring a narrow specialisation is only possible after a servicemember has experienced the conditions of combat engagement at the front.

Awareness of responsibility

Savchenko emphasised that being on the front line is necessary for everyone. She stressed that only through personal experience can a warrior fully feel the reality of service in combat conditions.

In the opinion of the servicewoman, this stage is critically important for forming an understanding of responsibility. Going through the front line helps personnel realise the weight and seriousness of all future duties, regardless of the position they will hold in the future.