Zelenskyy Announces Reform of Ukraine’s Assault Troops

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed a decree ordering the creation of the Joint Rapid Response Forces within the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and appointed Brigadier General Dmytro Voloshyn to oversee their formation.

Announcing the decision, Zelenskyy said reforms were needed to address existing problems within the military, particularly regarding personnel management. He also confirmed that changes would be made to the leadership of the Assault Troops.

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According to the president, the Joint Rapid Response Forces will serve as a new operational component of the Armed Forces, integrating assault units with unmanned systems, artillery, and other supporting capabilities to provide a faster and more effective response along the front line.

Zelenskyy assigned Voloshyn, a Hero of Ukraine and commander of the 8th Corps of the Airborne Assault Forces, to lead the development of the new formation, stating that he is capable of further strengthening the capabilities of the Armed Forces in this area.

The decree also instructs the Cabinet of Ministers, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, and the General Staff to take the necessary measures to establish the Joint Rapid Response Forces within the Ground Forces. In addition, they are tasked with preparing proposals on transforming the formation into a separate branch of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

A separate provision requires the Minister of Defense and the Commander-in-Chief to promptly submit a candidate for appointment as commander of the Joint Rapid Response Forces. The decree entered into force upon its publication.

About Dmytro Voloshyn

Brigadier General Dmytro Voloshyn has served in the Armed Forces of Ukraine since 2008 and has been engaged in combat operations since 2014. Before assuming command of the 8th Corps of the Airborne Assault Forces in May 2025, he commanded the 82nd Separate Airborne Assault Brigade.

During Russia’s full-scale invasion, Voloshyn participated in the liberation of Kherson Oblast, the battles for Bakhmut and Soledar, the Ukrainian counteroffensive in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, the defense of Vovchansk, and operations in Russia’s Kursk region. He was awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine for his service.