Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, days after removing defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov in a controversial decision that sparked nationwide protests.
Syrskyi has been replaced by General Mykhailo Drapatyi, a 43-year-old frontline commander widely regarded as a reform-minded military leader.
The dismissal follows six days of demonstrations across Ukraine after Zelensky removed Fedorov, who had earned widespread praise for modernising the armed forces, tackling corruption, and driving innovation through drone warfare and data-driven military reforms. Protesters also demanded the dismissal of the unpopular Syrskyi.
Rumours of tensions between Fedorov and Syrskyi were effectively confirmed by the latest reshuffle, with many critics accusing the outgoing commander of resisting reforms. In a farewell message, Syrskyi defended his record, saying he was leaving behind “an army that is not only holding the line but is advancing.”
Drapatyi pledged to lead the armed forces “responsibly” while thanking Syrskyi for his service.
Fedorov also welcomed the appointment, describing Drapatyi as “a new hope in the fight of free people for freedom and justice” and calling his promotion “the voice of change that could not be ignored.”
The new commander is widely viewed as being closer to Fedorov’s reform agenda.
Zelensky thanked Syrskyi for his role in defending Kyiv during Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022 and revealed he had offered Fedorov another senior government position, although it remains unclear whether the former defence minister will accept.
Acting Defence Minister Yevhenii Khmara will remain in office for now while he and Drapatyi prepare a new defence strategy focused on military reform, weapons procurement, and drone capabilities.
The appointment of Drapatyi is expected to ease some of the political pressure on Zelensky, though many protesters continue to demand Fedorov’s return to a position with significant authority over Ukraine’s military reforms.
