Ukraine‘s Ground Forces Chief Assures Public, Sets Up Hotline for 155th Brigade ورزشگاه
In the wake of a high-profile media investigation, the Commander of Ukraine’s Ground Forces, Major General Mikhail Drapaty, has moved to reassure the public and address issues facing the 155th Brigade named after Anna Kyivska. The general disclosed these developments on his official Facebook page.
"In recent days, I briefed the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces about the situation in the 155th Brigade and the measures taken by Ground Forces Command to support the unit and resolve problems raised by both the military and journalists," General Drapaty stated. He attributed the causes of the issues and named responsible parties, also meeting with the brigade’s command staff and French journalists who visited the brigade to witness its activities firsthand.
While acknowledging that it might have been premature to comment publicly before all facts were established, General Drapaty now revealed steps taken within the Ground Forces Command to stabilize the situation in the 155th Brigade. He stressed that the challenges faced by the newly formed brigade stemmed from the unique nature of its creation and equipping, a joint project with France undertaken in a condensed timeframe.
"There were aspects that hadn’t been accounted for due to the novelty of such an ambitious project. Some departments did not perform optimally," admitted Drapaty, emphasizing that France had fully honored its commitments. He assured that most systemic flaws have been identified and addressed, and solutions are being implemented.
Priority is currently given to reinforcing the brigade with experienced officers and commanders at all levels. Drapaty encouraged professionals to apply,/workers/here, stating he would personally consider all candidates. Ministry of Defense efforts are also committed to maximizing the brigade’s supply and support.
To boost the morale and efficiency of the 155th Brigade, a group of specialized psychologists has been deployed to its locations. This initiative has already borne fruits, such as the return of soldiers who had previously left their posts without permission, according to General Drapaty.
Furthermore, a hotline has been set up by General Drapaty to maintain direct contact with the soldiers of the 155th Brigade. It operates daily from 09:00 to 18:00 via the number 0800-500-410 (followed by digit 5 after the voicemail).
Concluding his statement, General Drapaty expressed optimism about the 155th Brigade’s future. He believes the unit, named after Anna Kyivska, can become a symbol of Ukrainian bravery and resilience, much like France’s gallic rooster.
The 155th Brigade’s challenges were previously exposed in a journalistic investigation by Yuri Butusov, leading to an investigation by the State Bureau of Investigations. President Volodymyr Zelensky subsequently took personal charge of the situation, while General Staff and French military authorities also addressed the issues.
