Zelensky Dismisses Ukraine Army Chief Amid Political Crisis
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Tuesday the dismissal of Oleksandr Syrsky, commander-in-chief of Ukraine's army, amid a political crisis triggered by the removal of defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov. Syrsky, 60, had served since 2024 and led the defence of Kyiv during the 2022 Russian invasion. Zelensky appointed joint forces commander Mykhailo Drapaty as his replacement. The decision follows days of protests supporting Fedorov, who accused Syrsky of forcing him out and obstructing military reforms.
Key facts
- Zelensky dismissed Oleksandr Syrsky as commander-in-chief of Ukraine's army.
- Syrsky was replaced by Mykhailo Drapaty.
- Syrsky had served since 2024 and led the defence of Kyiv in 2022.
- The dismissal follows protests over the removal of defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov.
- Fedorov accused Syrsky of forcing him out and stalling military reforms.
- Zelensky announced the decision on Telegram.
- Protests occurred in Kyiv, with images of an unmanned ground vehicle.
- The event is part of an ongoing political crisis.
Entities
Locations
- Ukraine
- Kyiv