Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi following days of nationwide protests sparked by the removal of former Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov.
The decision comes after mounting public pressure and widespread criticism of Syrskyi’s leadership, with many Ukrainians accusing him of resisting military reforms championed by Fedorov.
Syrskyi Replaced by General Drapatyi
General Mykhailo Drapatyi, 43, has been appointed as Ukraine’s new commander-in-chief.
In a Facebook post following his appointment, Drapatyi said:
“I will work responsibly, with full focus, and with respect for the people who are defending our country today.”
He also thanked his predecessor.
“I grew up in it,” he said, referring to the army Syrskyi helped build.
In his farewell message on Telegram, Syrskyi defended his record, writing:
“An army that was fighting a difficult defensive campaign two years ago is now on the offensive.”
He added:
“I am handing over to my successor an army that is not only holding the line but is advancing… I sincerely hope this offensive will continue.”
Fedorov Offered New Government Role
In a video address, Zelensky praised Syrskyi for his role in defending Kyiv during the early stages of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.
The president also revealed he had met with former Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov and offered him “a worthy position in power,” although it remains unclear whether Fedorov has accepted.
Fedorov welcomed Drapatyi’s appointment, describing it as: “A new hope in the fight of free people for freedom and justice.”
He added:
“It was the voice of change that could not be ignored.”
Fedorov also revealed he had personally called Syrskyi to thank him for leading Ukraine during several historic battles.
“But we need to move even faster and write new chapters correcting all previous mistakes,” he said.
Public Pressure Forces Leadership Change
Fedorov’s removal as defence minister last week triggered six consecutive days of demonstrations across Ukraine.
Many protesters viewed the 35-year-old as the driving force behind military innovation, particularly in drone warfare, digital reforms and anti-corruption efforts.
His replacement by former Security Service official Yevhenii Khmara was met with widespread criticism.
The protests increasingly shifted their focus toward Syrskyi, who many regarded as representing outdated Soviet-era military thinking.
