Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed Oleksandr Syrskyi as commander-in-chief of the country’s army, BBC News reported, following days of protests over the removal of Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov.
Syrskyi, 60, has been replaced by Mykhailo Drapatyi, 43, described in the source material as a popular and experienced general. The change follows reports that Fedorov’s departure was linked to tensions with Syrskyi.
In a social media video late on Tuesday, Zelensky thanked Syrskyi for his military campaigns, including his role in the defence of Kyiv in the opening days of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.
Syrskyi defended his record in a farewell message on Telegram, saying the army he was handing over was not only holding positions but also advancing. He said he hoped the offensive would continue.
Drapatyi said on Facebook that he would work “responsibly” and with respect for those defending Ukraine. He also thanked Syrskyi for his work in strengthening the army.
Zelensky said he had met Fedorov earlier in the day and offered him a “worthy position in power”, but did not state whether it had been accepted. Fedorov, who was replaced last week by Yevhenii Khmara, congratulated Drapatyi and described the appointment as a new source of hope.
Fedorov had been appointed defence minister in January and was credited in the BBC report with pushing data-led changes, anti-corruption efforts and drone-related initiatives. His removal led to six days of protests and increased pressure on Zelensky to replace Syrskyi.
Khmara remains acting defence minister for now. Zelensky has asked him and Drapatyi to prepare a new defence strategy covering military reform, weapons supplies and drones.
