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Zelensky Dismisses Ukraine Army Chief Amid Political Turmoil

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismisses army chief Oleksandr Syrsky, appointing Mykhailo Drapaty amid political crisis and backlash over defense minister firing.

Editorial Desk

July 22, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Kyiv, Ukraine — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Tuesday the dismissal of Oleksandr Syrsky, the commander-in-chief of Ukraine’s army, amid a growing political crisis following the removal of a popular defense minister.

Zelensky appointed joint forces commander Mykhailo Drapaty to replace Syrsky. The 60-year-old Syrsky had been serving as army chief since 2024 and was recognized as one of Kyiv’s most seasoned military leaders, having commanded the defense of Kyiv during the initial stages of Russia’s full-scale invasion.

The decision comes as Ukraine grapples with significant political upheaval, exacerbated by the recent firing of a well-regarded defense minister. The move has sparked considerable backlash among both political factions and the general public, raising questions about the stability of Ukraine’s leadership during a critical period of conflict.

Mykhailo Drapaty, the newly appointed commander-in-chief, faces the daunting task of stabilizing the military command and maintaining morale among the troops as Ukraine continues to defend against Russian aggression.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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