Zelensky Dismisses Commander-in-Chief Syrsky, Appoints Drapaty

Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has formally dismissed Alexander Syrsky from the post of commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian armed forces and appointed Mikhail Drapaty to replace him, according to decrees published on Zelensky's website. The reshuffle comes amid a political crisis in Ukraine following a series of government changes.

Syrsky confirmed his resignation publicly, posting on Telegram: "I step down as commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian armed forces today. <...> I hand over to my successor an army that is not only holding the line but is even on the offensive." His statement, however, stood in contrast to figures cited by the Russian Defense Ministry, which reported that Ukraine loses roughly 1,500 troops daily as a result of actions by Russian forces in the special military operation zone. Military expert Andrey Marochko was quoted by TASS as saying that Ukrainian forces lost more than 10,000 soldiers and mercenaries in the week ending July 20.

Background: Government Reshuffle and Protests

The dismissal of Syrsky followed the removal of Defense Minister Mikhail Fyodorov on July 14, a decision TASS reported was partly linked to a conflict between Fyodorov and Syrsky. Protests erupted in Ukrainian cities on July 16 in response to Fyodorov's dismissal. Demonstrators initially called for his reinstatement but later expanded their demands, which included changes in the military leadership.

TASS reported that Fyodorov's departure was backed by "the largest Western media outlets" and that he was seen as a reformer. However, the same report noted that "Ukrainian nationalists" opposed his dismissal, adding another layer to the internal discord.

New Appointments and Legal Questions

Zelensky appointed Mikhail Drapaty as the new commander-in-chief, promoting him from his previous role as commander of the Joint Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. In a related move, Igor Skibyuk was named chief of the General Staff, replacing Andrey Gnatov, who was dismissed alongside Syrsky.

However, the appointments have raised legal questions. According to TASS, which reviewed Ukraine's national security law, Zelensky may appoint a new commander-in-chief only upon the recommendation of a serving defense minister. The defense minister's post is currently vacant, with Yevgeny Khmara serving as acting minister. This has led to uncertainty about the legality and timing of Drapaty's appointment, which could be delayed by up to a month.

Syrsky's departure was marked by a public statement in which he said he was leaving behind an army capable of offensive operations. His claims contrasted with data from the Russian Defense Ministry, which reports heavy Ukrainian losses.

Reactions and Implications

Russian officials and commentators have weighed in on the leadership change. Military expert Andrey Marochko was quoted as saying that Ukraine has no outstanding military commanders capable of defeating Russia,с and that Drapaty's appointment would have no effect on the course of Russia's special military operation.

TASS also reported that the reshuffle reflects deeper instability in Kyiv, with protests in Ukrainian cities following Fyodorov's dismissal. The protesters gradually expanded their demands, calling not only for Fyodorov's reinstatement but also for broader changes in military leadership.

The formal process of Drapaty's appointment has raised legal questions. According to Ukrainian national security law, the president may appoint a commander-in-chief only upon the recommendation of a serving defense minister. With the defense minister post currently vacant, the legality of the appointment is being questioned, though Zelensky has proceeded with the reshuffle.

Key Claims

  • Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky formally dismissed Alexander Syrsky as commander-in-chief and appointed Mikhail Drapaty to replace him, according to decrees on Zelensky's website.
  • Igor Skibyuk was appointed as the new chief of the General Staff, replacing Andrey Gnatov.
  • Syrsky claimed to be handing over an army capable of holding the line and going on the offensive.
  • Russia's Defense Ministry reported Ukrainian losses of approximately 1,500 troops per day.
  • Zelensky's appointment of Drapaty may face legal hurdles, as Ukrainian law requires a sitting defense minister's recommendation for such a change.