New Commander-in-Chief of Ukraine: Maj Gen Mykhailo Drapatyi

Major General Mykhailo Drapatyi, aged 43, has been appointed as the new commander-in-chief of Ukraine’s armed forces. He replaces Oleksandr Syrskyi, marking the third individual to hold this position since the onset of Russia's large-scale invasion in 2022.

Drapatyi's nomination has received positive feedback from both military circles and civil society, as he is seen as an effective leader with a wealth of military experience. His name became prominent among demonstrators who initially supported his associate, former Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, but later called for Syrskyi's removal. One soldier expressed, "There's no better person for this position nowadays in Ukraine."

Military background and early career

A graduate of the Kharkiv Institute of Tank Troops in 2004, Drapatyi began serving as a lieutenant. His reputation soared in May 2014, when he led a mission to reclaim hostages from pro-Russian separatists in Mariupol. A viral video of his battalion breaking through barricades brought him international recognition. Subsequently, he was commended for strategically withdrawing Ukrainian units from a difficult situation in Luhansk.

In 2021, he returned to academia for advanced military training and was awarded a sword of honour as the top graduate. Following the start of the full-scale invasion in February 2022, Drapatyi was deputy commander of joint forces and played a critical role in repelling Russian advances in several frontline areas.

Personal accountability and leadership style

In a notable instance, following a missile strike on a training ground in Dnipropetrovsk region that resulted in casualties, Drapatyi submitted his resignation, citing personal responsibility for the tragedy. He stated, "An army in which commanders bear personal responsibility for the lives of personnel keeps living."

Drapatyi's resignation was viewed as an example of accountability, which led to his appointment as commander of the Joint Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine by President Volodymyr Zelensky. Observers noted the growth of tensions between Drapatyi and his predecessor, Syrskyi.

Military analysts have credited Drapatyi as a young, skilled general who has often faced challenging situations. According to Mykola Bielieskov, a senior analyst at the Ukrainian NGO Come Back Alive, he enjoys a solid reputation among soldiers, especially those who joined the military after 2022. However, he faces significant challenges in his new role, including corruption and the need for manpower mobilisation amidst ongoing conflict.

Expectations for change

With the prospect of a ceasefire with Russia appearing unlikely, the Ukrainian military and public are looking to Drapatyi for a shift in strategy. He promised a measured approach focusing on responsibility and respect for service members. There is a palpable hope for change from the previous leadership's tactics, which many viewed as outdated and overly aggressive.

Analysts caution that while there is optimism for improvement under Drapatyi, significant obstacles remain. As articulated by Oleksiy Kopytko, a former adviser to the interior ministry, the pressures of his position may swiftly shift public perception from adulation to criticism.

Former army chief Valery Zaluzhnyi warned that Drapatyi may encounter challenges beyond his expectations. Nonetheless, a certain excitement is palpable among Ukrainian ranks, with some suggesting that a renewed collaboration with former officials could pose significant challenges for Russian forces.

As he steps into this pivotal role, Drapatyi is expected to tackle systemic issues, which include combat training and procurement inefficiencies. However, he will be required to operate on a broader stage, with the nation looking to him for leadership in these tumultuous times.