Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has undertaken the biggest shake-up of the military leadership since the start of the Russian invasion in 2022, appointing 43-year-old Major General Mykhailo Drapati as the new commander of the armed forces. He replaces General Oleksandr Syrsky, in a move seen as a transition to a younger generation of military leaders. The decision comes after days of protests in Kyiv and other cities sparked by recent cabinet reshuffles. The dismissal of former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov sparked a strong backlash, with critics accusing Zelensky of political decisions that could undermine Ukraine’s efforts on the frontline.
In an attempt to ease tensions, Zelensky announced that Fedorov would return to the government, although it was not yet clear what role he would hold. Fedorov is reportedly seeking a return to the Defense Ministry, a position already held by former special operations commander Yevhen Khmara. “We have come a long way. The defense of Ukraine continues, and every soldier deserves to be treated with respect,” Zelensky said, thanking Syrsky for his service and all soldiers fighting on the front lines. Protesters had warned of escalating demonstrations if Fedorov was not reinstated in a senior government role, making this one of the most serious political crises for Ukraine since the war began.
Why was Syrsky replaced?
Oleksandr Syrsky, who led the defense of Kiev in the early months of the Russian invasion and has led the army since early 2024, has faced criticism for his command style. Within military circles, he has been accused of making some operational decisions that have led to unnecessary troop losses. The clashes between Syrsky's traditional approach and Fedorov's technological vision have exposed deep divisions within the Ukrainian leadership as the war enters its fifth year.
Mykhailo Drapati is considered one of the most capable commanders in the Ukrainian army. With more than a decade of experience fighting Russian forces, he is known for supporting technological innovation and modernizing the army. Ukrainian media Babel has described Drapati as one of the most effective commanders on the battlefield, noting that his new task will focus on reforming the army’s structures and not just on leading combat operations. “I will work with responsibility, full dedication and respect for the people who defend our country,” Drapati wrote on social media.
Fedorov also welcomed his appointment, calling it “a new spirit” and “a voice for change that can no longer be ignored.” The changes in the military leadership come at a delicate moment for Ukraine, where a state of emergency has suspended the holding of elections and Russian military pressure remains high. However, Zelensky has stressed that military operations will continue without interruption. Kiev’s strategy remains to strike Russia’s strategic targets and energy and logistical infrastructure, with the aim of increasing pressure on Moscow and creating the conditions for a peace agreement.
