Reason Why Zelensky Sacks Ukraine’s Army Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi Finally Revealed
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, days after replacing Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov in a leadership shake-up that sparked nationwide protests.
Syrskyi, 60, was replaced by battle-hardened General Mykhailo Drapatyi, a popular military commander. Zelensky thanked Syrskyi for his service, particularly his role in defending Kyiv during the early stages of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.
The president also disclosed that he had offered Fedorov another senior government position but did not reveal whether the former defence minister had accepted.
Fedorov, who was appointed defence minister in January, earned praise for modernising the military, tackling corruption, and introducing technology-driven initiatives, including the “Army of Drones” programme. His removal triggered public protests, with many Ukrainians expressing concern over the government’s handling of the military leadership.
Congratulating Drapatyi on his appointment, Fedorov described the change as “a new hope” and called for faster reforms while acknowledging Syrskyi’s contributions in several key battles.
Syrskyi has yet to comment directly on his dismissal. Earlier this week, he defended his working relationship with Fedorov and said military decisions should be based on practical realities rather than public pressure or political slogans.
