Ukrainian Ground Forces chief reverses resignation after talk with Zelenskyy

Lieutenant General Mykhailo Drapatyi, Commander of Ukraine’s Ground Forces, has decided to remain in his post after reversing his earlier resignation. 

His decision, announced on Telegram, follows a personal conversation with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, days after a Russian missile strike on a military training ground killed 12 soldiers and injured more than 60 others, Caliber.Az reports. 

Thus, General Drapatyi had declared his resignation in the immediate aftermath of the strike, citing personal responsibility for the deadly incident.

Drapatyi’s resignation, however, was not final. In a new statement, the general revealed that a detailed and “lengthy” conversation with President Zelenskyy led him to reconsider.

“I had a lengthy conversation with the President. I reported everything currently known about the tragedy at the training ground — every step taken, who was present, who was responsible for the personnel, and who was supposed to act.”

He added that he had explained the reasoning behind his initial resignation, but that Zelenskyy expressed his support and urged him to remain focused on the war effort.

“The President listened, expressed his support, and encouraged me to focus on what matters most — the war, the frontline, and victory.”

Grateful for the president’s backing, Drapatyi underscored a renewed sense of duty and the need for institutional change within the Armed Forces.

“I am grateful to the Commander-in-Chief for his trust, for our shared understanding of responsibility, and for his vision of the changes our army needs.”

He stressed the importance of transforming military culture, especially the relationship between commanders and soldiers.

“We must transform the culture within the military — the way commanders treat their soldiers, approach their duties, and value every Ukrainian soldier’s life, each of whom has taken up arms to defend Ukraine.”

Finally, Drapatyi confirmed that he had been given a new assignment by the president and would continue to serve on the frontline, where he believes he is meant to be and can make the greatest contribution.

To recall, the missile strike occurred on June 1, targeting a Ukrainian Armed Forces training unit. At the time, no large gatherings were taking place, and most personnel had reportedly taken shelter following an air raid alert.

All wounded servicemembers are currently receiving medical care, and a formal investigation has been launched to determine the exact circumstances of the attack.

By Aghakazim Guliyev