Ukrainian general quits days following stepping down

(MENAFN) Ukrainian General Mikhail Drapaty has been appointed to a key military role just days after stepping down from his previous position as head of the Land Forces. His reassignment comes amid reports of growing internal disputes within Ukraine’s military leadership.

The Ukrainian army has faced significant struggles on the battlefield in recent months, following a failed counteroffensive in late 2023. Amid these setbacks, rumors of growing dissatisfaction and division at the highest ranks have surfaced, reflecting a shift in momentum toward Russian forces.

President Vladimir Zelensky announced on Tuesday that Drapaty would now lead a specialized command, established in 2020 to align Ukraine’s operations with NATO standards. His responsibilities will focus exclusively on combat missions, while another official will oversee training and administrative tasks.

Drapaty recently criticized a culture of blame-averse leadership within the army, arguing that this has become a “poison” threatening Ukraine’s ability to win. His reassignment underscores ongoing attempts to reform the military’s command structure and address internal weaknesses.

Some media reports interpret Drapaty’s criticism as a veiled rebuke of General Aleksandr Syrsky, the current commander-in-chief. The reshuffle may be a way for Zelensky to balance power within the army’s leadership and empower those who advocate change.

Zelensky dismissed his previous commander, Valery Zaluzhny, in early 2024 after the latter challenged the official view that a breakthrough against Russian defenses was imminent. Subsequently, Zaluzhny was removed from his post and appointed ambassador to the UK.

Drapaty was put in charge of the Land Forces in November 2024 and his reassignment highlights ongoing upheaval within Ukraine’s military ranks.

MENAFN17062025000045015687ID1109684997