Ukraine's army chief expected to lose job after week of protests

Ukraine's commander in chief Oleksandr Syrskyi is widely expected to lose his job as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy bows to pressure from protesters. Thousands have gathered outside the presidential office in Kyiv chanting “Syrskyi out,” with some using cheese graters as a symbol, a pun on the commander’s name.

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Syrskyi out

The general staff denied media reports of Syrskyi’s imminent sacking, stating he and his deputy continue their duties. However, Zelenskyy’s influential chief of staff, Kyrylo Budanov, acknowledged the public mood. "The position of society has been heard. The situation was being resolved 'professionally and constructively'," he said, urging calm and noting the enemy watches internal disputes.

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The position of society has been heard. The situation was being resolved “professionally and constructively”.

The protests began after Zelenskyy dismissed Defense Minister Mykhailo Federov, who is credited with battlefield improvements. Federov stated Syrskyi blocked reforms with "bureaucratic impediments" and ignored data, rewarding loyal brigades instead. Zelenskyy confirmed their relationship had broken down.

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The enemy is closely watching every one of our internal disputes and waiting for us to start fighting among ourselves. Work is under way. Results will follow.

An armed forces source confirmed Syrskyi's departure is decided, with the search for a replacement focusing on a known, popular figure without open political ambitions and with military experience. Zelenskyy met with potential successors, including Mykhailo Drapatiy, known for his actions in 2014. It remains unclear if Federov will be reinstated or given another role.

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Dismissal from these posts takes place on the basis of a decree by the president of Ukraine.