Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy replaces General Oleksandr Syrskyi as commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and appoints Major General/General Mykhailo Drapatyi to lead the military, according to multiple outlets. The change follows days of protests and civil society pressure across Ukraine, with coverage describing dissatisfaction with Syrskyi’s leadership style and broader concerns about how military reforms are handled.
Several reports say the decision is announced by Zelenskyy and carried out through presidential decrees or a presidential announcement, marking the most significant military leadership shake-up since late 2024. Coverage also notes that Syrskyi, after being dismissed, says his commitment to the war effort remains unchanged despite leaving the top role.
Other articles add that Drapatyi is viewed by many observers as more receptive to modernization or different command approaches, and that public reaction to the appointment ranges from approval to continued debate about the direction of reforms. Some reports also mention related internal political issues around the defence minister and reform efforts, which were among factors cited in the protests.
