Who are the winners and losers of Ukraine's political shake-up: 'Populism is a sick form of democracy, but even that is better than tyranny'

Ukraine's political landscape is shifting as President Volodymyr Zelensky replaces top military and defense officials. Oleksandr Syrskyi, the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, has been dismissed and replaced by General Mykhailo Drapatyi. This decision comes in the wake of protests and a week after Zelensky removed Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. Fedorov, who was reportedly in conflict with Syrskyi, has been promised a new, significant position by Zelensky. Ukrainian analysts view these maneuvers as characteristic of a populist leader, suggesting Zelensky is consolidating his influence. The article notes that the current balance of power favors two individuals named Mykhailo, while Syrskyi is positioned as the loser in this political reshuffle, though the situation remains fluid. The report also touches on the ongoing drone operations against targets deep within Russia, with the new military chief and the president reportedly agreeing to continue these missions.

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Populism is a sick form of democracy, but even that is better than tyranny.