Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy appointed Major General Andrii Hnatov as Chief of the General Staff, replacing Lieutenant General Bargylevych, as part of efforts to modernise the military’s command structure.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has appointed Major General Andrii Hnatov as the new Chief of the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Defence Minister Rustem Umerov announced on Sunday. He will succeed Lieutenant General Anatoliy Bargylevych, who had been appointed in February 2024.

Hnatov, a highly experienced officer with over 27 years in the military, has previously commanded the Marine Brigade, the Eastern Operational Command, and the Joint Forces of Ukraine.

Umerov highlighted that Hnatov's appointment is part of broader efforts to modernise the army's command structure and enhance operational efficiency.

Meanwhile, Bargylevych has been named Chief Inspector of the Defence Ministry, where he will focus on overseeing military standards and strengthening discipline within the armed forces.

"I am grateful to Lieutenant General Bargylevych for his service as Chief of the General Staff. His expertise and professionalism were vital during Ukraine’s most challenging times," Umerov said, adding that Bargylevych would continue to contribute to military reforms.

Umerov stated that these leadership changes aim to modernise the defence inspection system, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen the discipline of Ukraine's armed forces.

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