Zelenskiy Appoints Shapovalov: New Leadership in Ukrainian Land Forces

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has decisively named Hennadiy Shapovalov as the new commander of Ukraine's land forces, filling the vacancy left by Mykhailo Drapatyi, who stepped down following a Russian assault on a training facility. Shapovalov's appointment was formalized by a presidential decree on Thursday.

Shapovalov brings valuable expertise from his previous role as a liaison officer at a NATO coordination center in Germany. Speaking in a nightly address, Zelenskiy highlighted the importance of Shapovalov's NATO experience in driving necessary changes and reforms within Ukraine's land forces.

The recent reshuffling also sees Drapatyi reassigned to lead the joint forces, a move described by Zelenskiy as part of a broader military reorganization. This leadership transition comes at a critical time as Ukraine faces ongoing challenges amidst heightened military tensions.

(With inputs from agencies.)