Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has removed Oleksandr Syrsky from his post as commander-in-chief of the armed forces, appointing Mykhailo Drapatyi as his successor.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed Oleksandr Syrsky as commander-in-chief of the country's armed forces on July 21. Mykhailo Drapatyi, who previously served as commander of Ukraine’s Joint Forces, has been named as the new commander-in-chief. Syrsky had held the position since February 2024, following the departure of Valery Zaluzhny.

Context of the dismissal

The decision follows a period of political tension involving the dismissal of Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov on July 15, which triggered protests across Ukraine. Reports suggested a conflict existed between Fedorov and Syrsky. Following the protests, sources indicated on July 18 that Zelensky was considering removing Syrsky, and by July 20, reports emerged that the president was reviewing 11 potential candidates for the role.

Recent government developments

Zelensky held a meeting with the former defense minister, Fedorov, on July 21 shortly before the announcement regarding Syrsky was made. While the details of that meeting remain undisclosed, there have been reports that the president sought to bring Fedorov back into the government. Currently, Yevhen Khmara, the head of Ukraine’s Security Service, is serving as the acting defense minister.