Zelenskyy replaces Ukraine army chief after protests over military leadership

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has dismissed Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi as commander-in-chief of the armed forces, appointing Mykhailo Drapatyi as his successor. This significant leadership change comes after days of mass protests in Kyiv and other cities, where demonstrators called for Syrskyi's removal.

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Our shared wish is one, victory over the enemy and conditions at the front and in pressure on Russia that would force Russia toward peace.

Protesters reportedly viewed Syrskyi as embodying an outdated, Soviet-style command culture within the military. The demonstrations also called for the reinstatement of former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, who was seen as a proponent of military modernization. Zelenskyy's decision marks the second major shift made under street pressure, following similar protests last summer that led to the reversal of a law weakening anti-corruption watchdogs.

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I am grateful to Oleksandr Syrskyi and to every one of our warriors for Ukraine’s strong front-line positions. I am grateful to Mykhailo Drapatyi for holding that same view.

Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to Syrskyi for his contributions, including the defense of Kyiv and operations in Kharkiv and Kursk. He also welcomed Drapatyi, emphasizing a shared goal of victory over the enemy and achieving peace through pressure on Russia. Drapatyi, in a Facebook post, described his service to Ukraine as an honor and an absolute responsibility during the war for independence.

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Serving Ukraine has always been an honor for me, and during this war for independence, it means absolute responsibility.

Moving forward, Drapatyi and other commanders are expected to present a revised defense strategy. This includes reforms to the corps system, accelerated delivery of weapons and drones, enhanced air defense against Russian strikes, and a clearer mobilization plan. Zelenskyy also met with Fedorov, offering him a government position to unify the country's technology sector, though Fedorov's acceptance remains unclear. Fedorov had previously criticized Syrskyi for hindering his reform efforts.

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I grew up in it. I will work responsibly, with focus and with respect for the people defending our state today.