Ahead of a phone call between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday to discuss ending the war in Ukraine, replaced his top military commander.
Andrii Hnatov, described by Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov as having “over 27 years of military experience,” has been appointed as the new chief of the general staff. Anatoliy Barhylevych, who had held the position since February 2024, will now become the general inspector of Ukraine’s Defense Ministry.
“We are consistently reforming the Armed Forces to enhance their efficiency by changing the management system and implementing clear standards,” Umerov said.
“I am grateful to Lieutenant General Anatoliy Barhylevych for his service as Chief of the General Staff. His experience and professionalism were crucial to organizing Ukraine’s defense during the most challenging times,” Umerov added. “Changes are underway. Strengthening the army for victory.”
The personnel change precedes a scheduled phone conversation between Trump and Putin on Tuesday, where they will discuss the final details of a potential agreement to end the war in Ukraine.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump indicated that many “elements of a Final Agreement” have been agreed upon, “but much remains.”
“Thousands of young soldiers, and others, are dying. Each week brings 2,500 soldier deaths from both sides, and this must end NOW,” Trump wrote. “I eagerly anticipate the call with President Putin.”
Leading up to the Trump-Putin call, White House special envoy Steve Witkoff met with Putin in Moscow last week to discuss the proposal. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, during discussions in Saudi Arabia, convinced senior Ukrainian officials to agree to the ceasefire framework.
and Moscow have reportedly begun discussing “dividing up certain assets” between Ukraine and Russia as part of a deal to end the conflict.
“The situation is bad in both Russia and Ukraine,” Trump told reporters on Monday. “What’s happening in Ukraine is not good, but we’re going to see if we can work out a peace agreement, a ceasefire, and peace. I believe we can achieve it.”
’ Louis Casiano and