Ukraine Will Step Up Counteroffensive Actions and Launch New Operations Inside Russia, New Top Commander Says

Ukraine’s new commander-in-chief, Mykhailo Drapatyi, says he has been instructed to step up counteroffensive actions and launch new operations inside Russia. Appointed by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy this week, Drapatyi replaced Oleksandr Syrskyi in the biggest leadership shake-up since the 2022 invasion. In a statement, Drapatyi said the objectives include intensifying offensives across multiple domains, planning operations “behind enemy lines,” developing military technology, and boosting Armed Forces capabilities. The reshuffle also includes Maj. Gen. Ihor Skybiuk taking over the General Staff.