Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, Oleksandr Syrskyi, and appointed Mykhailo Fedorov in his place.
The decision comes after weeks of debate and protests in Ukraine, fueled by concerns that Fedorov's removal from the post of defense minister could hamper the modernization of the military, particularly the development of drone-based capabilities.
Fedorov, 35, is considered one of the key figures in the technological transformation of the Ukrainian army and had publicly expressed disagreement with Syrsky's military strategy, which was criticized for its more traditional approach, relying on infantry and artillery.
In his response, Zelensky thanked Syrsky for his contribution to the most important stages of the fight against Russia.
"The fact is that Oleksandr Syrskyi ensured Ukraine's results in the defense of Kiev, in the Kharkiv offensive operation and in the Kursk operation," the Ukrainian president declared.
He added that the defense of Ukraine continues and that the military needs an approach that guarantees respect for every soldier.
"An important path has been covered, the defense of Ukraine continues, and a dignified attitude towards every soldier is necessary. I am grateful to Oleksandr Syrskyi and each of our soldiers for Ukraine's strong positions on the front line," Zelensky said.
Fedorov's appointment as head of the armed forces is seen as a signal for the continued modernization of the Ukrainian army and the increasing role of technology in military operations.
