Internal personnel reshuffles within the Ukrainian Armed Forces at the operational level continue to create a new context in the unfolding of hostilities in the eastern region of the country
Recently, significant changes took place in the command of the Operational-Tactical Group "Donetsk," which, according to unconfirmed official sources, may have an important impact on the course of the defensive operation in this most complex sector of the front. Instead of the experienced Brigadier General Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, known for leading the most difficult periods of active combat and operational management on some of the most tense sections of the front, now the command of "Donetsk" is led by Major General Viktor Nikolyuk. This personnel decision became known in mid-March from unofficial military circles, particularly from two high-ranking officials close to Ukraine’s defense forces. As "Ukrainska Pravda" has learned, the primary reason for the leadership change is likely related to the health condition of the former commander, who reportedly felt unwell and had certain medical issues. Sources indicate that Tarnavskyi may either resign or be transferred to another significant position. Viktor Nikolyuk, a career military officer with many years of combat experience who recently served as acting chief of staff of the same operational group, was appointed as the new commander of the "Donetsk" Operational-Tactical Group. Military experts note that Nikolyuk is well aware of the situation at the front and commands respect within the military community. Additionally, there is speculation that another position—namely, the command of the 9th Army Corps—may also see a high chance of change, given its strategic importance. This unit is responsible for defending many sectors of the front that fall under the sphere of the "Donetsk" operational command. The area of responsibility of Ukrainian troops in this region is quite complex. It includes some of the hottest parts of the front: the stretch from Pokrovsk to Kostiantynivka, where Russia demonstrates active attempts to advance; the eastern outskirts of Pokrovsk; the border of Donetsk and Dnipropetrovsk regions; and the strategic Nova Pavlivka direction, which includes the villages of Bahatyr and Komar. These directions are extremely important in terms of security and maintaining Ukrainian sovereignty in the Donetsk region. It is worth noting that Oleksandr Tarnavskyi took the position of commander in December 2024, following the rapid advancement of Russian forces toward Pokrovsk and the resignation of his predecessor, Oleksandr Lutsenko. His appointment generated many comments among military and analytical circles, as it signaled a need for decisive actions in response to the enemy’s swift progress. Regarding Viktor Nikolyuk—he is 49 years old and well known in military circles as a highly qualified officer with extensive combat experience. His name is closely associated with the command of the Northern Operational Command, especially in 2022 when he led the defense of Chernihiv, one of Ukraine’s key defensive strongholds. For bravery and professionalism displayed in 2022, he was awarded the title Hero of Ukraine. It is also known that he previously oversaw the training of soldiers within the Ukrainian Ground Forces’ command, backed by many years of combat and leadership experience. The leadership change in the "Donetsk" operational group sends an important signal to domestic and international political and military analysts that the situation in this region remains very tense. It is expected that the new commander will more actively coordinate actions with the broader Defense Forces, alter tactical approaches to protect critical strategic positions, and strengthen internal mobilization of reserves in this area. In the context of the evolving situation, indirect signals from official statements should also be considered: personnel changes are likely part of a broader strategy to stabilize and strengthen Ukraine’s defenses in the most difficult sectors of the front, which remain under the greatest threat. Meanwhile, the high level of mobilization and training of troops in this sector confirm that the Ukrainian Armed Forces are preparing for further active actions in the struggle to restore territorial integrity. Overall, it is anticipated that the new commander of the "Donetsk" operational group will not only implement tactical decisions on the battlefield but also, through strategic efforts, ensure stability in the most tense sectors of the front. This decision marks a new stage in military reform and in enhancing the readiness of the Ukrainian forces during this challenging period of confrontation with the Russian aggressor.