Zelenskyy Replaces Ukraine’s Army Chief After Nationwide Protests
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi as commander-in-chief of the armed forces on Tuesday and appointed Mykhailo Drapatyi to replace him. The decision followed several days of protests in Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, where demonstrators demanded military leadership changes and the return of former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov.
Zelenskyy said the appointment came after consultations with senior commanders and reflected a shared objective of strengthening Ukraine’s battlefield position and increasing pressure on Russia. He thanked Syrskyi for his service, citing the defence of Kyiv and operations in Kharkiv and Kursk. Syrskyi had led the military since February 2024, after replacing Gen. Valerii Zaluzhnyi.
Drapatyi said his new role carried significant responsibility and pledged to lead with focus and respect for Ukrainian personnel. Zelenskyy directed him and other commanders to prepare an updated defence strategy. Priorities include reforming the corps system, accelerating weapons and drone deliveries, improving air defence, and clarifying mobilization plans.
The political crisis began when Zelenskyy reorganized his wartime government, replacing the prime minister and dismissing Fedorov after six months as defence minister. Zelenskyy described relations between Fedorov and Syrskyi as unworkable. Fedorov later accused Syrskyi of obstructing reforms and maintaining a centralized, Soviet-style command structure.
Fedorov welcomed Drapatyi’s appointment and called for clearer war planning, greater protection of soldiers, expanded robotic warfare, asymmetric operations, and stronger economic pressure on Russia. Zelenskyy also offered Fedorov another government role focused on coordinating Ukraine’s technology sector, though it was unclear whether he accepted.
Public opposition to Fedorov’s removal drew thousands into demonstrations and spread into the military. An air force deputy commander resigned, while veterans, soldiers, and public figures criticized Syrskyi. Protesters argued that a younger generation of commanders should prioritize limiting casualties. The leadership change represents another instance in which Zelenskyy reversed course following public pressure.