Former Ukrainian Military Chief Named Ambassador to UK

Following Valerii Zaluzhnyi’s removal as the nation’s top military commander, Ukraine has appointed him as the new envoy to the United Kingdom, as reported by Al Jazeera. The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated on Thursday that it has submitted a request to the British government for approval.

Since the dismissal of former ambassador Vadym Prystaiko in July 2023 by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy due to public criticism, Ukraine has lacked a representative in the UK.

During the early stages of the conflict with Russia, Zaluzhnyi led the Ukrainian army, successfully repelling a formidable invasion force. He earned the nickname “Iron General” in the Ukrainian media and enjoyed high popularity ratings.

However, his standing suffered after a well-regarded counteroffensive collapsed the previous summer, and due to public disagreements with President Zelenskyy. Oleksandr Syrskii, who led Ukraine’s successful autumn 2022 counteroffensive in the northern Kharkiv region, assumed command in February.

Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to Zaluzhnyi for his two years of service upon his dismissal and emphasized the need for new military leadership.

Even Zaluzhnyi acknowledged the necessity for a change in Ukraine’s military approach almost two years into Russia’s full-scale invasion.

Zaluzhnyi’s appointment as envoy to the UK coincides with UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps’ visit to Kyiv on Thursday. Zelenskyy mentioned prioritizing the strengthening of Ukraine’s air defense and long-range capabilities, along with fulfilling other urgent armament requirements and advancing cooperative weapon manufacturing.

Following the meeting, the UK Ministry of Defense announced its commitment to provide over 10,000 drones to support Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russia.