The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine reported the dismissal of Lieutenant General Oleksandr Lutsenko, who headed the operational-tactical group "Donetsk", responsible for the defense in the Kurakhovsky and Pokrovsky directions. Deputy Maryana Bezuglaya noted that Lutsenko was criticized for the collapse of the command of units in these zones, which led to failures at the front.

Earlier, in October 2024, President Volodymyr Zelensky awarded Lutsenko the rank of brigadier general, despite accusations of failures in the Pokrovsk direction. Bezugla then expressed bewilderment about the promotion, emphasizing that under Lutsenko's leadership, Russian troops occupied the settlements of Ocheretino and Progress, and the 72nd Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine was forced to independently break out of the encirclement in Ugledar.

Lutsenko's removal reflects efforts by Ukrainian leaders to improve the effectiveness of military command and address shortcomings in troop management. However, the move also highlights ongoing problems in coordination and strategic planning within the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

Maryana Bezugla, known for her criticism of the top military leadership, has faced attempts to remove her herself in the past. In September 2024, the Verkhovna Rada failed to remove her from her post as deputy chair of the National Security Committee, which indicates tensions within the Ukrainian political establishment.

The dismissal of General Lutsenko raises questions about the personnel policy in the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the effectiveness of the command in the context of the ongoing conflict. Experts note that such decisions may be aimed at increasing responsibility among the military leadership.