Kazakhstan sets new standards for its military

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, who also serves as the supreme commander-in-chief of Kazakhstan’s armed forces, has called for a significant boost in the military’s combat readiness, morale and recruitment standards.

During a meeting with the leadership of the Ministry of Defense, the president instructed the military to improve the command system both within the ministry and among the troops. He also emphasized the need to establish a military reserve system, further develop the Special Operations Forces and territorial defense units, and expand the digitalization of the armed forces, including the use of artificial intelligence.

President Tokayev also stressed the importance of making military service more respectable and appealing by raising recruitment standards and enhancing motivation among personnel to improve their competencies.

Additionally, he reminded military commanders at all levels that they are responsible for safeguarding the lives and health of their subordinates. The day before the meeting, President Tokayev dismissed former Defense Minister Ruslan Zhaksylykov and appointed Lieutenant General of Aviation Dauren Kossanov — previously the vice minister of defense — as his replacement.