Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi in a major military leadership reshuffle, appointing experienced battlefield commander Mykhailo Drapatyi as the country’s new top military officer.
Kyiv, Ukraine – Web Desk: According to official announcements, Syrskyi was removed from his post as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, while Drapatyi was appointed to lead Ukraine’s military as the country continues to face Russia’s ongoing invasion.
The leadership change comes just days after the dismissal of former Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, a move that sparked public protests across parts of Ukraine. Local media reports suggested growing disagreements between Fedorov and Syrskyi, claims that were later confirmed by Ukrainian officials.
Media reports described the 60-year-old Syrskyi as a commander associated with Soviet-era military doctrine who had faced criticism from some quarters for resisting structural reforms within the armed forces.
His successor, Mykhailo Drapatyi, is widely regarded as an experienced combat commander and has earned recognition for his leadership on the battlefield during the war with Russia.
In his nightly video address on Tuesday, President Zelensky thanked Syrskyi for his military service, particularly highlighting his role in the successful defence of Kyiv during the early stages of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.
Zelensky also revealed that he met with former Defence Minister Fedorov and offered him what he described as a “senior government position.” However, the president did not disclose whether the offer had been accepted.
The Ukrainian leader said all decisions related to the military and government reshuffle would be formally approved the following day.
