Defense Ministry Spokesperson Orest Drymalovsky Steps Down: A Look at the Personnel Shifts

Orest Drymalovsky's Resignation

According to Главком: Orest Drymalovsky has resigned from his position as spokesperson for Ukraine's Ministry of Defense. His departure was announced on February 9, 2026. Drymalovsky had been appointed to the role on August 9, 2025, and during his tenure, he gained considerable experience in defense and communications. These high-profile personnel changes are closely watched as Ukraine continues its defense against the ongoing Russian invasion.

Orest Drymalovsky joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine in February 2024, serving with the 79th Separate Tavria Air Assault Brigade in the Donetsk region. For his service, he was awarded the Cross of Valor medal. Prior to joining the Ministry of Defense, Drymalovsky had worked in journalism since 2015. He is a graduate of the Ivan Franko National University of Lviv and worked as a correspondent and presenter for the First Western TV channel, as well as for the 'Vikna-news' program on STB.

Personnel Changes at the Ministry of Defense

The personnel shifts at the Ministry of Defense extend beyond Drymalovsky's resignation. The Cabinet of Ministers has approved an updated roster of deputy defense ministers. Oleksii Vyskub, who previously served as First Deputy Minister of Digital Transformation from 2019, has been appointed First Deputy Minister of Defense. Furthermore, in early 2026, Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov announced the appointment of Serhii Beskrestnov (call sign Flash) as his advisor.

It is known that Drymalovsky had commented on bureaucratic processes within the defense establishment, suggesting that a significant portion of bureaucracy could be eliminated with the direct consent of a commander. These changes within the Ministry of Defense point to an active process of reform and adaptation to new challenges in the context of the modern war.

“The resignation of Orest Drymalovsky and the personnel changes at the Ministry of Defense underscore the importance of adapting management structures to the new realities Ukraine faces.”

The appointment of new deputies and advisors may signal attempts to update defense strategies and improve communication processes amid the protracted military conflict. This could also affect the effectiveness of the response to the challenges currently faced by the Armed Forces of Ukraine.