Robots Will Not Be Able to Completely Replace Fighters on the Frontline: Pivnenko

Commander of the National Guard of Ukraine Oleksandr Pivnenko. Photo: facebook.com/OleksandrPivnenko

Ground robotic complexes and unmanned aircraft are not capable of fully replacing service members at the front lines, despite active use of modern technologies during hostilities. Commander of the National Guard of Ukraine Oleksandr Pivnenko explained that even with widespread deployment of drones and robots, the presence of trained fighters remains necessary to hold positions.

This was disclosed by the commander of the National Guard of Ukraine, Major General Oleksandr Pivnenko, to journalist Galyna Ostapovets of News.LIVE.

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Drones cannot replace troops on the front line

According to Pivnenko, modern technologies help equip Ukrainian units, but cannot fully take over the functions of military personnel.

For delivering essential cargo to front-line positions, drones, ground robotic complexes, buggies, ATVs, and motorcycles are used. At the same time, the general noted that all these means remain vulnerable to enemy attacks.

The commander of the National Guard stressed that the main task of logistics is to provide the troops with food, ammunition, battery cells, and communications equipment.

Limitations of ground robotic complexes

Pivnenko explained that ground robotic complexes also require constant maintenance and supervision by military personnel.

In particular, such systems need to be supplied with ammunition, kept in working order, and controlled. Therefore Pivnenko believes that even broad deployment of robotic technologies does not mean a full abandonment of presence of people at combat positions.

The commander of the National Guard also highlighted the training of personnel. According to him, it is precisely the preparedness of service members and the resilience of defensive positions that remain important components of conducting hostilities.

As a reminder, earlier the News.LIVE portal reported that Ukraine is developing a plan to respond to potential crisis situations in winter. According to the head of the Office of the President, Kyrylo Budanov, the document will cover the period from November 2026 to March 2027. The government must identify major threats and ensure resource distribution among regions that will most need assistance.

Also News.LIVE wrote that Western allies are discussing a new plan to end the war in Ukraine. According to The Washington Post, the document envisages a ceasefire along the current front line, security guarantees, and a gradual lifting of sanctions against Russia. Separate points include rebuilding Ukraine and restoring energy cooperation between Moscow and Europe.