Igor Plakhuta, who was appointed as the new commander of the Armed Forces of Ukraine’s Territorial Defense by President Volodymyr Zelensky’s decree on February 11, has a long history of serving his country. Plakhuta, who previously led a unit of the Internal Troops of the Ministry of Internal Affairs during the 2013 Euromaidan protests, has been praised by Ukrainian media outlets such as «Ukrainska Pravda,» hromadske, and the «Anti-Corruption Action Center» for his dedication and leadership.
Born in 1978 in the city of Lviv, Plakhuta joined the Ukrainian Armed Forces in 1996 and has since risen through the ranks, gaining valuable experience and expertise in various military operations. He has served in the Anti-Terrorist Operation in eastern Ukraine, as well as in international peacekeeping missions in Kosovo and Iraq.
During the Euromaidan protests, Plakhuta was in charge of a unit of the Internal Troops of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, which played a crucial role in maintaining order and protecting the protesters. His unit was known for its professionalism and restraint, even in the face of violent clashes with riot police.
After the success of the Euromaidan revolution, Plakhuta continued to serve his country, taking part in the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine. He was praised for his bravery and strategic thinking, which led to several successful operations against Russian-backed separatist forces.
In 2018, Plakhuta was appointed as the Deputy Commander of the Joint Forces Operation, where he oversaw the coordination of military operations in the Donbas region. His leadership and dedication were crucial in the successful defense of Ukrainian territories and the liberation of several strategic locations from enemy control.
Plakhuta’s appointment as the commander of the Armed Forces of Ukraine’s Territorial Defense is seen as a strategic move by President Zelensky to strengthen the country’s defense capabilities. The Territorial Defense Forces were established in 2014 to provide additional support to the Ukrainian Armed Forces in times of crisis. Plakhuta’s experience in both military and law enforcement operations makes him a perfect fit for this role.
In his new position, Plakhuta will be responsible for the training and deployment of the Territorial Defense Forces, as well as coordinating with other branches of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. His appointment has been met with widespread support from both military experts and the general public, who see him as a capable and dedicated leader.
Plakhuta’s appointment also highlights the ongoing efforts of the Ukrainian government to combat corruption within the military. The «Anti-Corruption Action Center» has praised Plakhuta for his integrity and transparency, stating that his appointment is a step in the right direction towards a more accountable and efficient military.
In conclusion, Igor Plakhuta’s appointment as the commander of the Armed Forces of Ukraine’s Territorial Defense is a testament to his years of service and dedication to his country. His experience and leadership skills make him a valuable asset in strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities. We can only hope that under his command, the Territorial Defense Forces will continue to play a crucial role in protecting Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.