Key facts
- President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has fired Ukraine's commander-in-chief, Oleksandr Syrskyi.
- The dismissal follows widespread protests against the earlier removal of Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov.
- Mykhailo Drapatyi, a general known for innovative approaches, has been appointed as the new head of Ukraine's armed forces.
- Fedorov, who emphasized technology and drones, clashed with the more traditional Syrskyi.
- Yevhen Khmara has been appointed as the new defense minister.
- Zelenskyy offered Fedorov a prominent government role focused on technology and development.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has dismissed Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi amid widespread protests that erupted after the removal of Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. The shake-up signals a significant shift in Ukraine's military leadership and strategy.
Zelenskyy announced the appointment of Mykhailo Drapatyi, a general known for his innovative approach and popularity, as the new head of the armed forces. Drapatyi is expected to oversee a reorganization of the army's command structure and implement reforms focused on modern technology and automation.
The protests, which saw thousands take to the streets, were sparked by Fedorov's dismissal. Fedorov, who championed the strategic use of drones and technology, had reportedly clashed with the more traditionalist Syrskyi. His removal led to public outcry, with protesters demanding his reinstatement.
In an effort to appease the public and unify the government's technical efforts, Zelenskyy offered Fedorov a prominent position focused on unifying the state's technical component and ensuring its development. However, it remains unclear if Fedorov has accepted this offer. Yevhen Khmara, a former special operations commander, has been appointed as the new defense minister.
Zelenskyy paid tribute to Syrskyi's leadership, crediting him with the defense of Kyiv and a counter-offensive in Russia's Kursk province. He emphasized that the defense of Ukraine continues and that every soldier deserves respect. The president also confirmed that Ukraine's long-range drone attacks on targets within Russia, such as oil refineries, would continue with precision.