Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has sacked the country’s army commander-in-chief, Oleksandr Syrskyi.
It is coming just days after the removal of popular Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov – a move that generated street protests across Ukraine.
Early rumours that the conclusion of Fedorov’s tenure was linked to a conflict between him and Syrskyi were soon confirmed.
Fedorov, 35, has been widely praised for energising the ministry and transforming the armed forces, as well as leading a push against corruption. Syrskyi, 60, is viewed by many in Ukraine as a Soviet-school commander reluctant to implement radical changes in the army.
Syrskyi defended his record in a farewell address, writing on Telegram: “An army that was fighting a difficult defensive campaign two years ago is now on the offensive.”
“I am handing over to my successor an army that is not only holding the line but is advancing… I sincerely hope this offensive will continue.”
Syrskyib has been replaced by Mykhailo Drapatyi, 43, who is a popular, battle-hardened general.
“I will work responsibly, with full focus, and with respect for the people who are defending our country today,” Drapatyi said on Facebook.
He also praised Syrskyi “for his consistent work to strengthen the Ukrainian army,” adding: “I grew up in it.”
In a video post on social media late on Tuesday, Zelensky thanked Syrskyi for his military campaigns, including his role in successfully defending the capital Kyiv during the first days of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.
Zelensky also revealed that earlier in the day, he met Fedorov and offered him a “worthy position in power”, but did not say whether the offer had been accepted.
Fedorov was last week replaced by Yevhenii Khmara, a former top official at Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU).
“All decisions will be formalised tomorrow,” Zelensky added in his post.
