Major reshuffle amid the Russia-Ukraine war: Mykhailo Drapatyi becomes the new Army Chief, Russia gives him the title of ‘butcher’ Major reshuffle amid the Russia-Ukraine war: Mykhailo Drapatyi becomes the new Army Chief; Russia has dubbed him ‘The Butcher’.

Amidst the ongoing fierce war between Russia and Ukraine, Kiev has made a huge and shocking change in its military command. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has appointed Major General Mykhailo Drapati as the country’s new Army Chief. The eyes of the whole world are fixed on this new appointment of Drapati, known for his aggressive military strategies. The surprising thing is that while on one hand Ukraine considers him an expert player on the battlefield, on the other hand Russia has even called him a ‘butcher’ due to his aggressive attitude. Reaching the top post of Drapati, who once submitted his resignation in protest against Zelensky’s decisions, is no less than a film story.

Who is Mykhailo Drapati and why is he in the news?

Mykhailo Drapaty is known as a powerful and experienced commander in the Ukrainian army for more than a decade. When the conflict started in the Donbass region in 2014, Drapati impressed everyone with his wisdom and frontline leadership. His aggressive military style and quick decisions on the battlefield have made him quite popular among Ukrainian soldiers. This is why when the country’s army needs a tough and experienced leadership the most, Zelensky has expressed confidence in him.

Why did Russia give it the title of ‘Butcher’?

With the appointment of Mykhailo Drapaty, there has been a sharp reaction from Moscow. In Russian media and military circles, Drapati is being addressed as ‘Butcher’. Russia alleges that the Dropats display excessive brutality and aggression during their military operations, causing massive damage to enemy forces as well as civilians and infrastructure. However, for Ukraine and its Western allies, this aggressive attitude is considered a major means of winning the war against Russia.

Had once tendered resignation to President Zelensky

The most interesting aspect of this appointment is that relations between Mykhailo Drapaty and President Volodymyr Zelensky have not always been smooth. A few years ago, Drapati even resigned from his post due to disagreements over military strategies and administration. His resignation was a testimony to the fact that he is not in favor of compromising on his terms and military principles. However, given the dire circumstances of the current war, the grudges between the two have been resolved and Zelensky has placed the country’s biggest military responsibility on his shoulders.