Ukraine’s Commander-in-Chief, Oleksandr Syrskyi, is widely expected to be dismissed from his post following a week of intense public protests across the country. Demonstrators in cities including Kyiv, Dnipro, and Kharkiv have called for his removal and the reinstatement of former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, who was fired last week amid reported tensions between the two leaders.
The protests, which began last Thursday, have seen thousands of participants demand a change in military management. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed last week that the relationship between the two had broken down, citing a lack of effective communication. Fedorov had previously accused the military leadership of blocking reforms and prioritizing personal loyalty over operational efficiency.
In a column published Monday in Militarnyi, Syrskyi addressed the controversy, stating he was surprised by reports of a conflict and emphasizing his focus on the front lines. “I’m at war with Russia, not the ministry,” he wrote, adding that the General Staff is prepared to cooperate with any minister appointed by the state. Despite these comments, sources familiar with the matter indicate that Zelenskyy is actively weighing a decision to replace Syrskyi, with potential candidates including Mykhailo Drapatiy reportedly under consideration.
The political pressure follows concerns over military procurement, drone policy, and the implementation of mobilization reforms. While the General Staff has denied reports of an immediate sacking, presidential chief of staff Kyrylo Budanov signaled that the government is listening to the public mood, stating, “Results will follow.”