Ukraine names new military chief, vows expanded offensives

Ukraine has appointed a new commander of its armed forces, who has pledged to expand offensive operations against Russia, including missions behind enemy lines. The appointment of Maj. Gen. Mykhailo Drapatyi on July 22 was part of a major government reshuffle by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy intended to end a week of political turmoil.

Drapatyi, a 43-year-old general known for his service since Russia's 2014 seizure of Crimea, stated the military would intensify offensive operations in all domains. In a social media post, he said difficult work lies ahead and promised to proceed without loud promises, with responsibility for decisions and respect for the people holding the front line. His appointment follows the dismissal of both the former commander-in-chief, Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, and the defense minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, after a public rift between the two men over military reform.

The political crisis began on July 16 when Zelenskyy overhauled his government, replacing the prime minister and firing Fedorov after six months in office. Fedorov, a 35-year-old tech entrepreneur credited with rapidly advancing Ukraine's drone capabilities, had publicly criticized Syrskyi, a...