Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed Army Chief General Oleksandr Syrskyi, a move that followed public protests against the earlier sacking of Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. The decision to remove Syrskyi, who was often criticized for heavy troop losses, comes after days of demonstrations in Kyiv and other cities supporting Fedorov.
Thousands of Ukrainians took to the streets, carrying signs reading "Hands off Fedorov" and "Stop sabotaging victory!" Protesters chanted "Shame!" outside the presidential office, demanding Zelensky reverse his decision to dismiss Fedorov. Fedorov is widely credited with transforming Ukraine's battlefield fortunes through innovative drone warfare.
Fedorov, who headed Ukraine's digital transformation policies before becoming defense minister in January, had clashed with Syrskyi. He accused the army chief of blocking necessary reforms, stating that initiatives proposed by his ministry were being obstructed. Fedorov expressed doubt about winning the war under Syrskyi's leadership, citing the changed nature of the conflict due to technology like drones. He was seeking to overhaul weapons procurement and combat corruption within the ministry.
Zelensky initially defended the dismissal of Fedorov, stating he had to "choose between sides" but desired "unity." However, under mounting public pressure, the president relented. Syrskyi has been replaced by Mykhailo Drapatyi, a 43-year-old commander described as a general of a new generation. Drapatyi has a long career fighting Russian troops since 2014 and played a significant role in key defensive operations, including the defense of Dnipro and the liberation of parts of Kherson and Dnipropetrovsk regions.
Fedorov welcomed Drapatyi's appointment, calling it "a breath of fresh air and a new source of hope." He expressed that it is "the voice of change that could no longer be ignored."
Zelensky stated that he offered Fedorov a "decent post" to oversee the technological component of the state, but Fedorov has indicated a desire to return to his previous role. Analysts suggest that while Drapatyi's appointment may help repair damage caused by Fedorov's ousting, Fedorov's potential return to government remains uncertain.
Syrskyi, nicknamed 'The Butcher' for his reputation, had been in his post since early 2024. He played a key role in Kyiv's defense early in the war but faced criticism for his rigid command style and high troop losses. His tenure also saw efforts to reform procurement, equipment, and mobilization, though these faced challenges.
The changes occur as Ukraine continues to target Russia's logistics and energy sectors. Drone strikes on Wednesday targeted warehouses belonging to the Russian online retailer Wildberries in Krasnodar and Nevinnomyssk, causing significant fires. Employees were evacuated, but some were wounded.
Syrskyi defended his legacy upon his ousting, stating he was handing over an army that was not only holding its defense but was also on the offensive. He alluded to unspecified operations carried out during his command that history would reveal.
Drapatyi becomes Ukraine's third commander-in-chief since Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. His supporters believe he represents a more modern approach to warfare, potentially reducing unnecessary casualties and boosting soldier morale. Military observers noted that such generational renewal is notably absent in the Russian army command.