Key facts
- A veteran alleges that allies of Oleksandr Syrskyi are attempting to intimidate him.
- The intimidation is reportedly to stop protests against the dismissal of Mykhailo Fedorov.
- Protests against Fedorov's removal have continued for a second day.
- Soldiers express outrage over Fedorov's dismissal, praising his role in military innovation, particularly with drones and AI.
- Some soldiers view General Syrskyi, commander-in-chief of Ukraine's armed forces, as representing an outdated military system.
- Concerns exist that Fedorov's departure will halt his reform and innovation programs during a critical period of the war.
A Ukrainian veteran has alleged that individuals associated with General Oleksandr Syrskyi, the commander-in-chief of Ukraine's armed forces, are attempting to intimidate him to cease protests against the dismissal of Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. These protests have continued for a second day, fueled by outrage among battle-weary soldiers and wounded veterans over President Zelensky's decision not to re-appoint Fedorov.
Soldiers interviewed by the BBC expressed bafflement and fury at Fedorov's removal, with many viewing him as a key driver of military innovation, particularly in the adoption of drones and modern technologies. Some soldiers hold a dim view of General Syrskyi, referring to him with derogatory nicknames like "The Butcher" or "General 200," and associating him with an outdated, Soviet-era approach to warfare that devalues human life. However, others acknowledge his military calibre and the lack of a suitable replacement.
The conflict between Fedorov and Syrskyi was reportedly significant, with President Zelensky stating they could not be in the same room. Fedorov himself blamed the general for blocking his reforms. Military analyst Ivan Stupak described Fedorov as representing a modern, digital approach, akin to an "iPhone 16," while Syrskyi represents an older, "telephone from the 1980s" era. Fedorov is credited with achievements such as convincing Elon Musk to block Russian access to Starlink and streamlining procurement processes.
Concerns are mounting that Fedorov's departure will halt his ambitious reform and innovation programs, especially with winter approaching and the potential for renewed Russian assaults on Ukraine's energy grid. Daria Kaleniuk, executive director of Ukraine's Anti-Corruption Action Centre, fears that progress made under Fedorov will be reversed during a critical period of the war. She also criticized President Zelensky, suggesting his actions indicate a disregard for public opinion and a tendency to sideline effective officials, leading to accusations of dictatorial behavior.