Protests in Ukraine: Could Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi Be Replaced?
Protests erupted in Ukraine in mid-July following the dismissal of Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. Protesters now demand the removal of Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, sparking debate over potential successors.
The Spark of Change
On July 16, protests broke out across Ukraine against the dismissal of Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. Fedorov, in a candid press conference, criticized Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, stating the war cannot be won with him in charge. Protesters expanded their demands to include Syrskyi's removal and Fedorov's reinstatement.
Military and Political Reactions
In response, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held three days of video consultations with corps commanders, branch heads, and operational group leaders. Discussions focused on frontline situations and supply issues, avoiding talk of Syrskyi or Fedorov. A shared fear emerged among officials of a "political general" — a commander-in-chief with political ambitions, seen as a potential "second Zaluzhnyi."
Potential Successors
Syrskyi has reportedly been grooming Air Assault Forces Commander Oleh Apostol as his successor, but it's unclear if Apostol wants the job now. Military sources list four main candidates: Oleh Apostol (Syrskyi's choice), Mykhailo Drapatyi (the military's favorite), Andrii Biletskyi, and Denys Prokopenko — both commanders of strong corps. Drapatyi is the protesters' preferred candidate.
Show of Loyalty
Following the protests, military commanders publicly expressed support for Syrskyi, except for Air Assault Forces brigades, which refused to release support videos. Syrskyi's favored 225th and 425th regiments stayed silent to avoid attention over abuse reports. Communications officers noted the loyalty display resembled tactics from the Kuchma/Yanukovych era, where central authorities pressure subordinates to demonstrate allegiance.
