KYIV, Ukraine: Ukrainian President Voloydmyr Zelensky has appointed Gennadiy Shapovalov as the new commander of the country's ground forces.

This appointment comes after the resignation of the previous commander following a deadly Russian strike on an army training ground.

Shapovalov, who previously worked as a military aid liaison in Germany and commanded Ukraine's southern military district, is expected to bring 'real combat experience' to his new role.

In his evening address, Zelensky emphasized the need for changes within the Ukrainian army, which has been struggling against Moscow's forces since the invasion more than three years ago.

Recent advancements by Russian troops across the front line and in Ukraine's Sumy region have further highlighted the urgency of these changes.

Peace talks aimed at ending the conflict have stalled in recent weeks, with Kyiv accusing Russia of deliberately sabotaging negotiations to prolong the fighting.

Despite this, Russia has maintained its openness to a peace settlement.