Drapatyi sets out leadership principles for Ukraine’s Armed Forces

Commander-in-Chief of Ukraine's Armed Forces Mykhailo Drapatyi has outlined principles that will guide his leadership of the military. Protecting personnel, ensuring fair service conditions, promoting innovation, and streamlining command structures are among the key priorities he has identified. The General Staff announced the publication of these principles on September 2, 2022.

Drapatyi emphasizes that Ukrainian servicemembers are the military's most valuable asset, stating that "the most valuable combat capability of the Armed Forces is our people, and every commander is obliged to protect them." The document also highlights that support for servicemembers should continue beyond their military service, including proper assistance, rehabilitation, recognition, and opportunities.

The principles state that military service should be predictable and fair, with personnel decisions based on the needs of the military, professionalism, and performance. Innovation and technology are also highlighted as important, as they can help carry out missions with fewer losses and less risk to frontline troops. Drapatyi calls for more efficient command structures, suggesting that headquarters should be smaller where possible and faster when necessary.

The Commander-in-Chief also expressed his vision for Ukraine's future, stating that the goal is to "create such Armed Forces of Ukraine that, in the future, no aggressor has reason to view an attack on Ukraine as an acceptable way of achieving its goals." President Volodymyr Zelenskyy appointed Drapatyi as the new Commander-in-Chief on July 21, 2022, following the dismissal of Oleksandr Syrskyi.

Drapatyi previously commanded Ukraine's Joint Forces and has identified strengthening air defense and reducing military bureaucracy as two of his key priorities.