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Zelenskyy Promises Army Decisions Amid Protests Over Defense Minister's Dismissal
๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Germany /Conflict & Security

Zelenskyy Promises Army Decisions Amid Protests Over Defense Minister's Dismissal

From Der Spiegel · () German

Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Ongoing story
  • Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed ongoing protests against the dismissal of Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov.
  • Zelenskyy stated that decisions regarding the army are being worked out after speaking with Fedorov and Army Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi.
  • Protesters in Kyiv are demonstrating against Fedorov's dismissal and also calling for Syrskyi's resignation.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has acknowledged public discontent following the dismissal of Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. In a video address, Zelenskyy assured that decisions concerning the army are being formulated. He revealed he had extensive discussions with both Fedorov and Army Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi.

Of course, I hear what people are saying.

โ€” Volodymyr ZelenskyyIn a video address acknowledging public sentiment.

This comes amid ongoing protests in Kyiv, where demonstrators have gathered for three consecutive days. The protests initially focused on opposing Fedorov's removal but have expanded to include calls for Syrskyi's resignation. The situation is unfolding against a backdrop of speculation in Ukrainian media about a potential dismissal of the army chief.

Decisions regarding the army are being worked out.

โ€” Volodymyr ZelenskyyPromising action after speaking with military leadership.

Fedorov, a popular minister, resigned Wednesday as part of a government reshuffle. He later thanked protesters via Telegram, expressing belief in a positive resolution. Fedorov had previously accused Syrskyi of forcing his dismissal through an ultimatum. He also criticized the military's bureaucracy and lack of flexibility, stating, "In this constellation, I personally do not know how the war can be won."

There is a dialogue. I believe that everything will turn for the better.

โ€” Mykhailo FedorovExpressing optimism about the situation on Telegram after his resignation.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Der Spiegel in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.