Major Shake-Up in Ukraine's Military Leadership: New Commander Appointed
Significant Changes in Ukraine's Military Command
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has made a pivotal change in the military hierarchy by removing General Oleksandr Syrskyi from his position as commander-in-chief of the armed forces. Major General Mykhailo Drapatyi has been appointed as his successor, marking a significant shift in leadership amid ongoing tensions from Russia's invasion that has persisted for over five years. This decision follows a series of protests across Ukraine, ignited by the earlier dismissal of Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, which highlighted a growing rift between him and General Syrskyi. Zelenskyy stated that this restructuring was the result of extensive discussions with military leaders regarding the General Staff's organization. He acknowledged General Syrskyi's contributions during the war, particularly in defending Kyiv and leading successful operations in Kharkiv and Kursk.
Zelenskyy emphasized the collective goal of defeating the adversary and creating favorable conditions on the front lines to pressure Russia into negotiations. General Syrskyi had faced scrutiny regarding his leadership style and support within the military.
Introducing Major General Mykhailo Drapatyi
Who is Ukraine's New Commander-in-Chief?
Major General Mykhailo Drapatyi is recognized as a well-regarded figure among civil society and military personnel. He previously commanded Ukraine's Joint Forces, managing operations in the northeastern Kharkiv area. Under his leadership since last autumn, Ukrainian troops, including the Khartiia Brigade, have successfully reclaimed territories around Kupiansk that were previously under Russian control. Prior to this role, he led the Dnipro operational-strategic group, which was disbanded by General Syrskyi in October 2025. During the initial stages of Russia's involvement in eastern Ukraine in 2014, then-Major Drapatyi commanded a battalion in the 72nd Mechanised Brigade and participated in the battle for Mariupol after it was briefly seized by Russian-aligned forces.
I have decided that Mykhailo Drapatyi will become the new Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Together with Mykhailo, Yevhenii Khmara, and Pavlo Palisa, we determined how the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine should be reconfigured. It is a fact that… pic.twitter.com/spK2B2ppHP
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) July 21, 2026
Recently, General Drapatyi publicly supported the ousted defence minister, commending Mykhailo Fedorov for his military reforms. He noted a sincere effort to amend outdated military practices and address issues that had long been overlooked. Advocating for comprehensive reforms, General Drapatyi stated on social media that while change is necessary, it must be accompanied by justice to resonate with those enduring the war's burdens. He emphasized that a commander must not remain silent about challenges, as silence only allows errors to accumulate, leading to more significant issues.
Controversy Surrounding Defence Minister Fedorov
What about Fedorov?
The recent removal of Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has sparked considerable backlash and protests, with critics accusing Zelenskyy of favoring General Syrskyi and the military establishment over a minister seen as a reform advocate. Fedorov had garnered support from civil society and military ranks for his push for transparency, improved military procurement, and better conditions for soldiers. On Monday, military veteran and protest leader Dmytro Koziatynskyi issued an ultimatum to the president, demanding General Syrskyi's dismissal and Fedorov's reinstatement. He warned that if these demands were not met by Friday, July 24, they would initiate a prolonged protest. While Zelenskyy confirmed General Syrskyi's removal on Tuesday, he did not provide any updates regarding Fedorov's potential return to the defence ministry.