New Commander of Ukraine's Ground Forces makes statement on his role

He emphasized that he fully understands all the challenges of the position, values the trust placed in him by the President of Ukraine, the Minister of Defense, and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, and is ready to work as part of a united team with all levels of the military and state hierarchy.

He stated that he is well aware of the problems and challenges the Ground Forces face daily. He also has experience commanding a combat brigade and, since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, has led the Southern Operational Command and the Tavria Operational Grouping of Troops.

Shapovalov noted that this has given him a deep understanding of internal processes, the needs of personnel, and the decision-making logic at the unit and formation levels.

"One of the most important tasks today is force generation. This includes the formation, training, and staffing of combat units and subunits of the Ground Forces," the commander emphasized.

He also stated: "I clearly understand that staffing the military, including recruitment, contract service, and mobilization, must not be a mere declaration, but a conscious choice of citizens."

According to him, the future of Ukraine depends on what is currently happening at the front, and therefore, all efforts must be directed at preserving the very existence of the state.

What he told the military

The Commander also emphasized the importance of constantly improving combat training following the realities of the front. He stressed that a key priority is the implementation of modern methods based on real combat experience, as well as the training of a highly professional corps of instructors and educators.

"For me, it is fundamentally important to develop all components of the Ground Forces without exception — from infantry and tank units to artillery, air defense, and army aviation," he stated.

He also specifically highlighted the need to equip the military with modern technologies and weapons, particularly the development of unmanned systems, communications, and command-and-control tools.

In his address to service members, he said, "You are the heart of our defense. Your heroism, professionalism, and dedication deserve the highest respect."
The Commander assured them that it is his duty to support every service member of the Ground Forces and to ensure decent service conditions.

He stressed that victory depends on the unity of efforts from the army, society, veterans, volunteers, government bodies, local authorities, and international partners.

"Only together can we restore peace and defend our future. Our unity is the strongest weapon in this fight," the Commander emphasized.

In conclusion, he expressed his readiness for open dialogue, initiatives, suggestions, and constructive criticism. According to him, this moment demands decisive action, effective solutions, and maximum focus on the key goal — strengthening the military, which today holds the country’s defensive line.

Drapatyi’s resignation

The Ground Forces were previously commanded by Major General Mykhailo Drapatyi. He resigned following a series of Russian strikes on Ukrainian training grounds.

The general announced his decision after Russian forces hit the 239th Ground Forces training ground. The strike resulted in casualties and many wounded Ukrainian defenders.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy later appointed Drapatyi to a new position. He now heads the Joint Forces Command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.