Zelensky Dismisses Syrsky, Popular Fedorov Returns to Government

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed Oleksandr Syrsky from his post as Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. In a late-night televised address, Zelensky announced that General Mykhailo Drapatyi will be appointed as the new commander. Drapatyi, a respected general, is tasked with leading a reorganization of the command structure, according to The Guardian.

The move comes after significant public pressure and protests across Ukraine following the recent dismissal of Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. Fedorov had accused Syrsky of forcing his departure and hindering his reform efforts, leading to widespread demonstrations in Kyiv and other cities. This political crisis is considered one of the most significant since Russia's invasion in 2022.

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We have come a long way. The defense of Ukraine continues. Every soldier deserves respectful treatment.

Zelensky thanked Syrsky for his service, crediting him with the defense of Kyiv and Ukraine's incursion into Russia's Kursk Oblast in the summer of 2024. "We have come a long way. The defense of Ukraine continues. Every soldier deserves respectful treatment," Zelensky stated, expressing gratitude to Syrsky and all soldiers on the front lines.

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Fresh wind and new hope, and a voice of change that could not be ignored.

Fedorov's return to the government was a key demand of the protesters, who had set a deadline of Friday for his reinstatement, threatening indefinite protests if their demand was not met. Fedorov welcomed Drapatyi's appointment, calling it "fresh wind and new hope" and a voice for change that could not be ignored. He emphasized the need to meet public expectations with a clear vision for ending the war, a strong team, and measures for soldier safety, front-line automation, and crippling the Russian economy.

Drapatyi, who commands Ukraine's joint operational group and has fought against Russia since the conflict began in Donbas in 2014, is highly regarded within the military and public. Known for breaking through a pro-Russian barricade in Mariupol with an infantry fighting vehicle, he is described by the Ukrainian media outlet Babel as one of Ukraine's most capable commanders. His new role will focus on military reform rather than direct battlefield command. Zelensky also confirmed that long-range drone attacks targeting Russian sites, including oil refineries, will continue.

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He is one of the most capable Ukrainian commanders.