Zelensky fires Ukraine's army chief amid protests

President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed army commander‑in‑chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, days after the removal of Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov triggered street protests across the country. The decision follows a confirmed clash between Syrskyi and Fedorov, which led to the minister’s abrupt exit.

Syrskyi, 60, is perceived by many Ukrainians as a Soviet‑school commander reluctant to implement sweeping reforms. In contrast, Fedorov, 35, was lauded for revitalising the armed forces, launching anti‑corruption campaigns and harnessing data analytics to improve battlefield performance.

In a farewell address on Telegram, Syrskyi praised the army’s transition from defensive operations to an offensive stance: “An army that was once holding the line is now on the attack.” He emphasised the importance of continuing that offensive momentum.

Mykhailo Drapatyi, 43 and a battle‑hardened general, was appointed as the new commander. Drapatyi’s rise is viewed as a fresh, youthful approach that could appease public discontent and restore confidence.

Zelensky acknowledged Syrskyi’s contributions in a video post, thanking him for defending Kyiv in the early stage of Russia’s full‑scale invasion. He also mentioned meeting with Fedorov earlier that day and offering him a “worthy position in power,” though it is unclear whether Fedorov accepted.

During the transition, acting Defence Minister Yevhenii Khmara remains in charge, and the President has tasked him and Drapatyi to develop a new defence strategy. The strategy will address the military corps system, weapons supply chain, drone integration, and necessary reforms.

Fedorov’s endorsement of Drapatyi’s appointment is seen as a key factor in diffusing the political crisis. The protests, however, continue to demand a leadership capable of sustaining Ukraine’s offensive push against Russian forces.