**Ukrainian Air Force Specialists Protected from Transfer to Front Line**
Highly-trained specialists in the Ukrainian Air Force are safe from being transferred to front-line infantry units, Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi said on January 19. This is a relief for many who were worried about their safety.
**Reports of Transfers Sparked Concerns**
Last week, reports emerged that thousands of Air Force soldiers had been transferred to the Ground Forces since 2024. Videos filmed by Air Force specialists themselves showed how difficult it was to keep them from being sent to the front line. The transfer was said to be a “real challenge” that could harm the country’s aviation.
**General Staff Says Transfers Necessary**
The General Staff of Ukraine’s Armed Forces claimed on January 14 that transferring some personnel is necessary to strengthen defense by reinforcing combat brigades with soldiers from other branches of the Armed Forces. However, they stressed that highly-qualified specialists are exempt from this transfer.
**Syrskyi Reiterates Protection for Specialists**
Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi reiterated in an interview that he has ordered not to transfer highly qualified personnel who have undergone training and specialize in aircraft maintenance. He said these specialists are crucial and cannot be replaced easily.
**Current Mobilization Efforts Not Enough**
Syrskyi also acknowledged that current mobilization efforts are not sufficient to meet the needs of the armed forces. Intensified fighting in Eastern Ukraine has put pressure on the military, making it difficult to find enough personnel for the front line.
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