Syrskyi Denies Conflict with Fedorov, Apologizes for Any Offense

In an article published Monday evening on the website "Militarnyi," Ukraine's Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi denied that there had been a conflict with the dismissed Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. Syrskyi emphasized that he only learned about these allegations from the media and was surprised by them.

Syrskyi described his relationship with Fedorov as working relations involving complex issues and differing positions. He also apologized if he had offended anyone, admitting he can be harsh, and urged all parties to focus on the global goal of victory.

The commander-in-chief rejected accusations that he issues ultimatums to the leadership or runs the army using messaging apps. He also refuted claims that he does not want to fight with drones, noting that it was under his leadership that the Unmanned Systems Forces were created.

Syrskyi explained that Fedorov redirected part of the funds intended for soldiers' payments to drone purchases, which caused problems with military personnel's financial support. Authorities are now seeking ways to ensure timely and full payments to soldiers.

Meanwhile, the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces called reports about the possible dismissal of Syrskyi as commander-in-chief untrue.