Zelenskyy Replaces Ukraine Military Chief
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has removed General Oleksandr Syrskyi as commander-in-chief of the armed forces and appointed Major General Mykhailo Drapatyi as his replacement following days of public protests.
Zelenskyy Removes Oleksandr Syrskyi
Zelenskyy announced the leadership change on Tuesday, describing it as part of a broader effort to modernise Ukraine’s military command during the continuing war with Russia.
He praised Syrskyi for his role in major operations, including the defence of Kyiv and the 2022 Kharkiv counteroffensive. However, Syrskyi had faced criticism from soldiers, veterans and campaigners over battlefield losses, command practices and resistance to military reforms.
The president said ongoing operations must continue without disruption and that Ukraine would maintain its long-range strikes against Russian military and infrastructure targets.
Mykhailo Drapatyi Named Army Chief
Drapatyi, 43, is a former commander of Ukraine’s land forces and has more than two decades of military service. He built his reputation through frontline commands during fighting against Russian-backed forces from 2014 and after Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.
He previously commanded forces defending Kherson and helped stop a Russian advance in the Kharkiv region. Drapatyi has promoted greater accountability, technological adaptation and changes to Ukraine’s military management.
Following his appointment, he pledged to approach the position with responsibility and focus.
Ukraine Protests Trigger Leadership Change
The reshuffle followed nationwide demonstrations sparked by Zelenskyy’s dismissal of Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. Fedorov, known for promoting military technology and procurement reforms, had reportedly clashed with Syrskyi over the direction of the armed forces.
Protesters demanded changes in military leadership and criticised the removal of Fedorov. Zelenskyy has since offered the former defence minister a senior government role focused on technological development.
The changes represent Ukraine’s most significant military leadership overhaul since Syrskyi replaced Valerii Zaluzhnyi in 2024.
