Stepan Poltorak

Stepan Poltorak, born on February 11, 1965, is a distinguished Ukrainian general and statesperson who played a pivotal role in the country's defense landscape. He served as the Minister of Defence of Ukraine from October 14, 2014, to August 29, 2019, during a critical period marked by significant military challenges.

Before his tenure as Minister, Poltorak held the esteemed position of commander of the Internal Troops of Ukraine and the National Guard of Ukraine. His military career culminated in the rank of General of the Army of Ukraine, reflecting his extensive experience and leadership capabilities.

In a notable transition, Poltorak continued to serve as the country's defense minister in a civilian capacity starting January 1, 2019, after resigning from military service in October 2018. This shift underscored his commitment to national security even beyond his military role.

However, his time in office came to an end at the request of newly inaugurated President Volodymyr Zelensky, leading to his resignation on May 20, 2019. Poltorak's contributions to Ukraine's defense strategy during his tenure remain significant in the context of the nation's ongoing challenges.