Zelensky replaces Ukraine's army chief

The leadership change comes just days after the removal of former Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, a decision that sparked public protests across Ukraine

KYIV: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-July 22nd, 2026) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi and appointed Mykhailo Drapatyi as the country's new military chief.

The leadership change comes just days after the removal of former Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, a decision that sparked public protests across Ukraine.

Initial speculation suggested that Fedorov's dismissal was linked to disagreements with Syrskyi, with media reports later indicating that tensions between the two senior officials had contributed to the shake-up.

According to reports, the 60-year-old Syrskyi was widely regarded as a commander who favoured a Soviet-style military approach and was resistant to introducing major reforms within Ukraine's armed forces.

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He has now been replaced by General Mykhailo Drapatyi, a respected battlefield commander known for his combat experience and popularity within the military.

In a video address released on Tuesday night, President Zelensky paid tribute to Syrskyi's military service, praising his role in defending the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, during the early stages of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022.

Zelensky also revealed that he met with former Defence Minister Fedorov earlier in the day and offered him what he described as a "senior and respected position" within the government. However, the president did not disclose whether Fedorov had accepted the offer.

The Ukrainian leader said all decisions related to the military and government reshuffle would be formally approved the following day.