The current military operation launched by Ukraine to reclaim its eastern and southern territories, which have been under Russian occupation for the past 18 months, is now fully underway.
Playing a crucial role in the planning and execution of this operation is General Valery Zaluzhny, a 49-year-old commander-in-chief of Ukraine.
Until recently, Gen Zaluzhny remained relatively unknown, but he has quickly gained popularity, now rivaling that of President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Gen Zaluzhny, affectionately referred to as “our Valera” by friends and old classmates, assumed the position of commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian military in July 2021.
His appointment, personally endorsed by President Zelensky, came as a surprise to both the general himself and many others, as it involved a significant advancement in his career, requiring him to climb several steps on the military hierarchy.