Dear UFF Friends and Supporters,
General David McKiernan, retired four-star U.S. Army General and member of the Ukrainian Freedom Fund Advisory Board, shared his perspective on Ukraine’s ongoing resistance against Russian aggression, the country’s military transformation, and the role of Western allies in ensuring victory.
In an exclusive interview with OBOZ.UA, General McKiernan — former Commander of the U.S. Third Army, U.S. Central Command (ARCENT), and Coalition Ground Forces during Operation Iraqi Freedom — discussed how Ukraine can overcome its most pressing challenges and what lessons from modern warfare apply today.
“This war is like David versus Goliath,” said McKiernan. “Ukraine has fewer resources, but through innovation and determination, it continues to hold off a much larger enemy.”
Ukrainian soldiers watch drone feeds from an underground command center. Photo: AP/Libkos.
General David McKiernan, retired four-star U.S. Army General. Photo: Army.mil
Key insights from the interview:
• Ukraine’s main advantage lies in morale and leadership, not numbers.
• The country must develop commanders who take initiative and responsibility, breaking free from Soviet-style hierarchy.
• Western partners should provide consistent support — including training, advisory programs, and long-term cooperation.
• Integrating Ukraine’s defense industry with Western technologies will be crucial for sustainability.
True security guarantees from the West must combine military, economic, and diplomatic measures — not words alone.
McKiernan also emphasized that NATO’s unity remains critical:
“Europe’s security must remain a U.S. priority. If Putin isn’t stopped in Ukraine, he won’t stop at Ukraine.”
If you’d like to explore the full interview, you can read it in English using your browser’s auto-translation feature on the website.
At UFF, with the guidance of our military advisors, including General McKiernan, we organize educational sessions that help Ukrainian defenders adopt U.S. and NATO standards of leadership, planning, and command. Each program strengthens Ukraine’s ability to defend effectively and independently.
Your support helps Ukraine’s defenders train, adapt, and move closer to victory.
Thank you for standing with Ukraine!
We are increasing the sustainable capacity of Ukraine by providing critical training and humanitarian services.
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The UFF will apply your funds to the most pressing campaigns and highly dynamic issues faced by Ukrainian defenders and citizens.
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Allow Ukraine to see beyond the horizon for search and rescue, risk assessment, and damage survey.
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