Discontent Among 'Aidar' Fighters Over Kovalenko’s Removal
Members of the 24th Separate Assault Regiment 'Aidar' have voiced strong opposition to the decision to relieve Major Oleksandr Kovalenko, known by his call sign 'Hook,' from his role as commander of military unit A3488. The regiment’s personnel have formally appealed to Ukraine’s top military leadership and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, urging them to review this personnel change. They emphasize Kovalenko’s extensive combat experience, professional excellence, and the trust he commands within the unit.
The dismissal was ordered on October 31, 2026. Kovalenko has served Ukraine since 2014, participating in both the Anti-Terrorist Operation and the Joint Forces Operation. He joined the 'Aidar' battalion at the outbreak of conflict, rising from soldier to company commander, before eventually leading the entire regiment. At the start of the large-scale Russian invasion, he was stationed near Volnovakha and played an active role in the defense of the Bakhmut front.
The Regiment’s Appeal and Its Significance
The personnel’s appeal highlights Kovalenko’s critical role within the regiment.
“When Ukraine was unprepared for aggression, its fate was saved by volunteer battalions. Since 2014, the 24th Assault Regiment 'Aidar' has defended the country, shaping its own internal culture and traditions,”the fighters stated. They underscored that volunteer units have historically been led by commanders from within their ranks, even after integration into the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
The regiment’s members also strongly reject the appointment of new leaders who have not shared the unit’s combat journey from the beginning.
“The 24th Assault Regiment 'Aidar' remains an active combat force, continuing to fulfill its operational tasks today,”the unit declared. They reiterated their request: "We urge a reconsideration of the personnel decision and ask that Oleksandr Kovalenko be retained as commander of military unit A3488, taking into account his combat experience, professionalism, and the confidence he has earned from the troops."
Kovalenko gained wide recognition through frontline videos shared on TikTok and has been honored with the title Hero of Ukraine and the Order of the Gold Star. His future in command remains uncertain, but the 'Aidar' fighters remain hopeful for a favorable decision from senior military authorities and President Zelenskyy.
- Oleksandr Todorchuk has been appointed head of the Main Directorate of Communications.
- Pavlo Palisa declined the position of Ukraine’s ambassador to the USA and requested to return to the frontline.
- Yuliia Svyrydenko and Dmytro Kuleba were among the candidates considered for the ambassador role in the USA.
This situation highlights the crucial impact of leadership decisions within military units, where the trust of personnel in their commanders is vital for mission success. During wartime, changes in command can significantly affect morale and combat effectiveness. It remains to be seen whether the highest military authorities will heed the appeals of the 'Aidar' fighters as they finalize their decision.