- Ukraine's commander in chief Oleksandr Syrskyi is widely expected to lose his job amid signs that he has bowed to pressure from protesters and will reshuffle the army's top leadership.
- Zelenskyy confirmed last week that the relationship between Fedorov and Syrskyi had broken down.
- Syrskyi published a column on Monday apologizing and expressing surprise at the conflict.
- Ukraine's general staff denied media reports on Monday that Syrskyi was about to be sacked.
- Zelenskyy's chief of staff Kyrylo Budanov hinted that the government had listened to the popular mood.
- Zelenskyy held meetings with several possible replacements on Monday.
- Protest organizers set a Friday deadline for Zelenskyy to give Fedorov his old job back.
Ukraine's army chief Oleksandr Syrskyi is facing potential dismissal after a week of protests in Kyiv, where thousands have rallied for his resignation. The protests began last Thursday, with demonstrators chanting “Syrskyi out” and waving cheese graters, a pun on his name.
Despite official denials from Ukraine's general staff that Syrskyi was about to be sacked, government officials have acknowledged the influence of public sentiment. Kyrylo Budanov, chief of staff to President Zelenskyy, stated, “The public’s position has been heard,” indicating that the government is responsive to the protests.
Syrskyi himself expressed surprise at reports of a conflict with the defense minister, offering a personal apology for any offense caused. However, sources within the armed forces suggest that his departure is imminent, with discussions already underway regarding potential replacements.
As the situation unfolds, the protests reflect broader discontent within Ukraine regarding military leadership and strategy amidst ongoing conflict. One source confirmed, “His destiny is decided. The question is who will replace him.” President Zelenskyy has reportedly met with several candidates for the role, signaling a significant shift in military command.
“Thousands of protesters have gathered outside the presidential office in Kyiv for five days chanting 'Syrskyi out', with some waving cheese graters as a pun on his name. Zelenskyy's chief of staff Kyrylo Budanov said the public's position has been heard, while protest organizers have given Zelenskyy a Friday deadline to reinstate Fedorov.”
The Guardian
