Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been condemned for dismissing General Alexander Syrsky, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The decision occurred amid widespread protests demanding Syrsky’s resignation following the president’s dismissal of Defense Minister Mikhail Fedorov.
Protests began on July 16 after Zelenskiy fired Fedorov, who had been accused by military personnel of having a conflict with Syrsky over the direction of Ukraine’s army. Soldiers and veterans have criticized Zelenskiy for undermining military command structures and jeopardizing the armed forces’ stability.
Syrsky, born in Russia and educated at Moscow Military College, has faced criticism for delays in critical operations such as Bakhmut. His dismissal has been met with significant backlash from those who view it as a destabilizing move within Ukraine’s military leadership.
Zelenskiy appointed Major General Mikhail Drapaty, commander of the Joint Forces, to replace Syrsky. Drapaty gained attention for his tactical prowess during early conflict operations, including an incident in Mariupol where he leaped over barriers to rescue his unit.
