Mykhailo Drapatyi appointed as Ukraine's third commander-in-chief

Kyrylo Drapatyi was appointed Ukraine’s third commander‑in‑chief of the Armed Forces on Tuesday, succeeding Valerii Zaluzhnyi, who stepped down after more than two years leading the military response to Russia’s full‑scale invasion that began in February 2022. The presidential decree, signed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, marks the latest high‑level change in Kyiv’s war‑time leadership as the country continues to adapt its strategy amid ongoing combat on multiple fronts.

Drapatyi, a career officer who previously headed the General Staff’s operations department and served as chief of staff for the Joint Forces, brings extensive frontline experience to the role. His appointment follows a period of intensified fighting in the east and south, during which Ukrainian forces have sought to balance defensive operations with limited counter‑offensives. Analysts note that the transition aims to sustain momentum and ensure continuity in command as the armed forces confront evolving Russian tactics. The new commander‑in‑chief is expected to oversee coordination with NATO partners and to steer the ongoing modernization and logistical efforts critical to Ukraine’s defence.