21.07.2026 23:21
In Ukraine, where the war with Russia continues, President Volodymyr Zelensky made a notable change in the top military leadership. Zelensky dismissed Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi and appointed Lieutenant General Mykhailo Drapaty in his place.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a notable change in the military's top leadership during the ongoing war with Russia. Zelensky dismissed the Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Oleksandr Syrskyi, and appointed Lieutenant General Mykhailo Drapatyi, who stands out for his achievements in the ground forces. The decision is considered one of the most comprehensive command changes in the military since the start of the war.
Oleksandr Syrskyi Syrskyi held this position for 2 years and 5 months. There is currently no definitive information on whether Syrskyi will completely leave the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
MYKHAILO DRAPATYI APPOINTED IN HIS PLACE
With the change announced by the Ukrainian Presidency, Mykhailo Drapatyi will take over Syrskyi's duties. It is stated that Drapatyi was preferred due to his performance in frontline operations and being one of the standout figures among young commanders.
Mykhailo Drapatyi REACTIONS BEHIND THE DECISION The change in command came after recent protests in Ukraine. Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi had been the target of intense criticism over his military strategies and approach to reforms, with public calls for his dismissal.
3RD CHIEF OF GENERAL STAFF IN 4 YEARS With Drapatyi's appointment, the Ukrainian military has experienced a change in commander-in-chief for the third time since the start of the war. Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, who was at the head of the military during the Russian invasion that began on February 24, 2022, was dismissed in February 2024 and replaced by Oleksandr Syrskyi. With Zelensky's latest decision, Mykhailo Drapatyi has been appointed in place of Syrskyi, marking this change as the third appointment at the highest command level of the Ukrainian military during the war.
MAJOR REVISION IN THE MILITARY The British press reported that with this decision, Zelensky aims to change the course of the war and restructure the military leadership. It is commented that this change in the command echelon could mark the beginning of a new era in Ukraine's war strategy.