Zelenskyy Hints at Replacing Commander-in-Chief Amidst Protests Over Defense Minister's Dismissal

Ukraine is facing its most significant political and military division since the start of the war, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signaling a potential shift in military leadership. Protests have erupted in Kyiv for three consecutive days following the dismissal of popular former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. Facing intense public pressure, Zelenskyy acknowledged on July 18th that he has "heard the voice of the people" and indicated that personnel decisions regarding the military are forthcoming, leading to widespread speculation that Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi may be replaced.

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This is the third day of protests. Of course, I heard the voice of the people.

Fedorov, who was removed from his post, held an unusual press conference the day after his dismissal. He directly criticized Syrskyi, accusing the military chief of failing to devise asymmetric strategies to defeat the Russian forces and of attempting to divide the country. Fedorov publicly questioned whether Ukraine could truly defeat Russia under Syrskyi's command.

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As the commander of the army, he did not find ways to defeat the enemy with asymmetric methods, but tried to divide his own country.

In response to the escalating conflict between the two high-ranking officials, Zelenskyy held multiple consultations with both Syrskyi and Fedorov. In a national address, he confirmed these discussions and his awareness of the public's outcry, particularly the chants of "Syrskyi, resign!" The 60-year-old Syrskyi, credited with leading the defense of Kyiv in 2022, issued a statement urging national focus on the war effort and effective strategies, without directly addressing Fedorov's accusations.

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Can Ukraine really win against Russia under Syrskyi's command?

Local Ukrainian media have characterized the dispute as a "generational conflict" between the 35-year-old Fedorov, an advocate for innovative technological solutions, and the 60-year-old Syrskyi, who represents a more traditional military approach. The protests, which saw demonstrators holding signs reading "Shameful" and chanting Fedorov's name, have continued in Kyiv. Fedorov expressed gratitude for the public support, stating, "I thank you for the hope you bring. Dialogue is ongoing, and I believe everything will be resolved." Organizers have threatened to expand the demonstrations to other major cities if Syrskyi is not dismissed.

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I thank you for the hope you bring. Dialogue is ongoing, and I believe everything will be resolved.