“The heart of our defense.” Key message of the newest Ukrainian commander in full offensive of the Russians
Ukrainian President Volodimirr Zelenski, right, talks to Brigadier General Hennadi Şapovalov, commander of the South Operational Command, during a visit to the Petro Kalnyshevskyi Division of the 27 Artillery-Rackete Brigade, on December 12, 2024, in the Zaporojie Region, Ukraine. The brigade was the first to receive the Himars long -range rocket system. Photo: Ukraine Presidency / Ukrainian Pre / Zuma Press / Profimedia
The new commander of the Ground Forces in Ukraine, brigadier General Hennadi Șapovalov, presented July 21 on Monday, the key priorities, in his first public statement from the office, on Saturday.
In his new role, Șapovalov will supervise the organization, training and operational conduct of Ukraine's ground forces, maintaining the preparation for battle and ensuring the efficient execution of military tasks, while Russia intensifies its offensive.
“It is a great honor and, at the same time, an extraordinary responsibility for me to lead the ground forces of the Ukrainian army at this time difficult for our country,” said Şapovalov, in a statement, emphasizing his commitment to the unity of military and government structures.
According to Șapovalov, one of his main tasks is the “generation of forces”, which includes the training, training and personnel equipping. He stressed that recruitment, contract service and mobilization must become a conscious choice of citizens, not just a formal obligation.
“The future of Ukraine depends on what is happening on the front today,” he said. “Therefore, all our efforts must be directed to the main objective – preserving the existence of our state,” added the general.
“To the soldiers of the ground forces: you are the heart of our defense. Heroism, professionalism and dedication are worthy of the greatest respect. My duty is to support all the soldiers of the ground forces and to ensure decent conditions of service,” he said.
Currently, Ukraine is experiencing serious challenges in terms of soldiers, while Russian forces continue to exert pressure along the front line. The rhythm of the new enrollments has recently slowed down, leaving the infantry units with insufficient staff.
Based on his leadership experience in the South Operational Command of Ukraine and in the Tavia Operational Group, as well as in his recent role in the NATO assistance and training mission in the field of security for Ukraine (NSATU) in Germany, Șapovalov emphasized the need for realistic fighting training, a better body of instructors.
Șapovalov also engaged to support all components of ground forces, infantry and artillery tanks, anti -aircraft defense and military aviation, giving priority to modern technologies, including drones, secure communications and control systems.
By directly addressing the members of the military service, Sapovalov called it “the heart of our defense”, promised to improve their conditions and ensure that their efforts are supported by national unity and civil support.
Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelenski appointed Şapovalov to the leadership of the Ground Forces on June 19, after the resignation of General Mihailo Drapatyi following a bloody Russian attack on a training polygon. The investigation into the incident is currently in progress. Drafatyi was later appointed commander of the United Forces.
