Zelenskyy dismisses top general Syrskyi after week of protests over defence minister's ouster

Protests erupt after Fedorov's dismissal

Daily protests began on 16 July in Kyiv and other major cities after President Zelenskyy removed Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov the previous week. Demonstrators, led by veteran Dmytro Koziatynskyi, demanded Fedorov's reinstatement and the removal of Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi. On 20 July, Koziatynskyi stated the movement now had two clear demands: bring back Fedorov and oust Syrskyi. A poll cited by in.gr showed 61% of Ukrainians view the 35-year-old reformist positively. Fedorov had gained wide recognition for modernising the defence ministry, expanding the use of new technologies, and pushing anti-corruption reforms. His dismissal drew criticism from lawmakers, veterans, and the public.

A rift between two wings

The conflict between Fedorov and Syrskyi had been simmering since Fedorov's appointment. Fedorov accused Syrskyi of blocking initiatives and refusing to discuss problems. Syrskyi, 60, favoured a highly centralised command structure rooted in Soviet military doctrine, drawing criticism from soldiers and analysts for micromanagement. Political scientist Oleg Saakyan told DW that the dismissal exposed a moral rift within Zelenskyy's team.

It is no longer about Fedorov or Syrskyi, but about the decision Zelenskyy must take - either Syrskyi's methods, i.e. the army and mobilisation, or the principles and methods advocated by Fedorov.

Syrskyi himself posted a brief social media message thanking Fedorov for his work as minister, but the tensions had become a systemic problem for the president.

Zelenskyy chooses a side

On 21 July, Zelenskyy dismissed Syrskyi and appointed Mykhailo Drapatyi, previously commander of the Joint Forces, as the new chief. In his evening address, Zelenskyy thanked Syrskyi for his role in the defence of Kyiv, the Kharkiv counteroffensive, and the Kursk operation. He acknowledged the deadlock between the two camps.

I respect both sides, I know their strengths and weaknesses, and I really want them to strengthen Ukraine. But in such a situation, there is only one way out - to choose a side.

Zelenskyy also said he had offered Fedorov a significant position overseeing the state's technology sector, aiming to leverage his experience in digital transformation and innovation. The decision marks one of the most significant military leadership changes in Ukraine since 2024.

New commander and continued strikes

Drapatyi, described as a highly experienced commander with a significant combat record and strong acceptance within the ranks, now leads the armed forces. Zelenskyy assured that Ukraine would continue long-range strikes against military targets on Russian territory under the new leadership. The protests, now in their sixth day, had achieved one of their two demands with Syrskyi's removal, but Fedorov's reinstatement remains unresolved.