Ukraine’s new military commander aims to fight a more modern war
Mykhailo Drapaty was named commander-in-chief of Ukraine’s armed forces on July 21, 2026, replacing Oleksandr Syrsky.
Drapaty aims to modernize Ukraine’s military and move away from Soviet-era command structures.
He previously served as ground forces commander, focusing on improving conditions, revamping recruitment, and introducing technology to reduce losses.
Drapaty implemented a Western style of command giving subordinates more authority, shifting from a culture of fear to responsibility.
He first gained fame in 2014 for leading a column of armored vehicles into Mariupol and later leading 260 troops back to Ukrainian lines after encirclement.
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Hindustan Times
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