New Commander of Ground Forces Outlines Strategic Priorities
On June 19, 2025, Brigadier General Hennadiy Shapovalov was appointed as the new commander of Ukraine’s Ground Forces. In a statement on the Ground Forces’ Telegram channel, he emphasized that one of his main tasks is the generation of troops, which involves the formation, training, and reinforcement of combat units and subdivisions, reports 24brussels.
General Shapovalov stated that staffing the military, including recruitment, contract service, and mobilization, should not be merely declarative but a conscious choice of Ukrainians.
“The future of Ukraine depends on what is happening on the front lines. Therefore, all our efforts must be focused on the primary goal—maintaining the very existence of our state,” Shapovalov remarked.
Moreover, he highlighted that the preparation of defense forces must align with front-line realities. Another priority is the implementation of modern methodologies coupled with a highly professional instructional and teaching staff.
“It is fundamentally important for me to develop all components of the Ground Forces: from infantry and tank units to artillery, air defense, and army aviation… Special attention will be paid to the development of a full range of unmanned systems, as well as modern communication and command tools that will provide us with an advantage over the enemy,” promised Shapovalov.
Previously, the Financial Times reported that President Volodymyr Zelensky appointed Brigadier General Shapovalov to reform the military hierarchy and improve the mobilization system to effectively counter a new phase of Russian aggression. Thus, the newly appointed commander must focus on enhancing the combat readiness of the Armed Forces, refining personnel training, and reforming the mobilization system.
