Zelensky announced personnel and organizational changes in the Armed Forces of Ukraine to enhance protection against drones

Personnel and organizational changes are being prepared in the Armed Forces of Ukraine

According to Рубрика — Суспільство: On August 17, 2026, following a meeting with the newly appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Mykhailo Drapaty, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced personnel and organizational changes in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. These changes are aimed at strengthening the protection of Ukrainian cities, communities, and frontline routes from the threats posed by Russian drones. The discussion covered the situation on the front lines, particularly in the areas of Kostiantynivka, Sloviansk, and Pokrovsk directions. Zelensky noted that updated information regarding the tasks of the Russian army in the respective regions had been received, which will allow for adequate counteractions to be prepared.

“Many details about the directions in Donetsk: the situation in Kostiantynivka, Sloviansk direction, Pokrovsk. We have updated data regarding the tasks of the Russian army in the respective areas and are preparing our counteractions,” - said Volodymyr Zelensky during a briefing.

Together with the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, possible organizational steps were discussed that could enhance protection in these intensive directions. The President also pointed out the necessity of preparing personnel decisions proposed by the new Commander-in-Chief.

During the meeting, the results of long-range operations for the first half of August were discussed, and priorities for deep strikes in the upcoming weeks and September were determined. Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that Ukrainian strikes had incapacitated 7 out of 10 largest logistics centers of the Russian marketplace Wildberries. The night strike on Podmoskovye on August 16 led to fires in the Wildberries warehouse in Koledino and the Severное Domodedovo complex in the Moscow region.

“Confirmed Russian losses validate the correctness of our long-range course,” - emphasized the president.

Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted that the targeted facilities supplied sanctioned components for the production of drones and navigational equipment. Thus, Ukrainian actions aim to not only protect the territory but also diminish the enemy's capabilities in conducting warfare.

The personnel and organizational changes in the Armed Forces of Ukraine indicate an intensification of the state's efforts to counter new threats, particularly drones. Considering the operational information regarding the actions of Russian troops, such steps can significantly impact the effectiveness of defense. The emphasis on long-range strikes also demonstrates Ukraine's desire not only to hold territory but to strike at the enemy's logistical chains, which is an important aspect in modern military conflict.

In light of these developments, Ukrainian intelligence has revealed new insights into Russia's strategies, prompting preparations for asymmetric countermeasures. This proactive approach is crucial for addressing the evolving threats and ensuring the effectiveness of the Armed Forces in the ongoing conflict.