KYIV: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has appointed Maj. Gen. Mykhailo Drapatyi as the new commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, replacing Oleksandr Syrskyi in a major overhaul of the country’s military leadership.
Announcing the decision on Tuesday, Zelenskyy said the leadership changes are part of broader efforts to strengthen Ukraine’s military command structure as the war with Russia continues.
According to the president, the appointment followed consultations with Drapatyi, Acting Defense Minister Yevhen Khmara, Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Pavlo Palisa, outgoing commander-in-chief Syrskyi, and Chief of the General Staff Andriy Hnatov.
Zelenskyy praised Syrskyi for his leadership during several key phases of the conflict, including the defense of Kyiv, the Kharkiv counteroffensive, and military operations in Russia’s Kursk region. He said Syrskyi’s contributions had played an important role in Ukraine’s defense and thanked him for his service.
The Ukrainian leader added that discussions had also focused on ensuring a smooth transition and defining future responsibilities for senior military officials. The appointments and related organizational changes were expected to be formally approved later on Tuesday.
“Ukraine must emerge from this period stronger, and our actions should make it increasingly difficult for Russia,” Zelenskyy said.
Drapatyi brings extensive battlefield experience to the role. Before his appointment, he served as commander of Ukraine’s Ground Forces and previously led the Kharkiv Operational and Tactical Grouping. He has also commanded military units in eastern Ukraine and has been associated with Ukraine’s 2024 cross-border operation in Russia’s Kursk region.
Earlier this month, Zelenskyy named Drapatyi commander of the Joint Forces as part of a wider restructuring of Ukraine’s military leadership, paving the way for his latest promotion.
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