Zelensky’s decision to remove army chief Oleksandr Syrskyi comes only days after the top defence minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, was dismissed – a move that sparked a wave of street protests across Ukraine.
Early rumours linked the two dismissals to a stake‑rivalry, and reports soon confirmed a conflict between the civilian defence chief and the army commander over reforms and battlefield tactics.
Fedorov, who was lauded for energising the ministry and introducing data‑driven spy‑tech, was seen by many as a reformer. Syrskyi, on the other hand, is viewed as a Soviet‑style officer who resisted radical change.
Syrskyi penned a farewell note on Telegram, declaring that “The army that was fighting a difficult defensive campaign two years ago is now on the offensive.” He added that he was “handing over to my successor an army that is not only holding the line but is advancing” and that he wished the offensive would persist.
His successor is general Mykhailo Drapatyi, a 43‑year‑old commander with a reputation for combat leadership and close ties to Fedorov. Drapatyi greeted the appointment on Facebook, pledging to work responsibly and honour the soldiers defending Ukraine, and thanked Syrskyi for his efforts to strengthen the army.
Zelensky also thanked Syrskyi in a video post, highlighting his role in defending Kyiv during the early days of Russia’s full‑scale invasion. He later met Fedorov and offered him a “worthy position in power,” though the acceptance of that offer remains unconfirmed.
Meanwhile, Fedorov applauded Drapatyi’s appointment, describing it as “new hope for free people fighting for freedom and justice.” He stressed the need to accelerate reforms and write new chapters to correct past mistakes.
Despite the new command, protesters remain eager for Fedorov to gain a real position of authority to continue his push for innovation. Whether he can be reinstated remains uncertain, and the public is wary of a repeat of the earlier decision.
For the time being, acting Defence Minister Yevhenii Khmara holds the mantle and has been tasked with drafting a fresh defence strategy in partnership with Drapatyi. The plan will address key issues such as reforming the military corps system, ensuring weapons supply and expanding drone capabilities.
