Zelenskyy hands defense to his strike-war chief and defends right to protest

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has made a surprising appointment for the acting defense minister, passing over the anticipated candidate and selecting his special operations chief, the officer responsible for Ukraine's long-range strikes. The decision comes as Zelenskyy has publicly defended citizens' right to protest.

The new acting defense minister is a seasoned military commander who has led special operations and coordinated strikes deep into enemy territory. His appointment is seen as a move to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities and maintain an effective counteroffensive.

In his comments, Zelenskyy emphasized the need for strong and reliable leadership in the military sphere. At the same time, he reaffirmed his support for citizens' rights to freely express their opinions, including through protests. This stance is considered crucial in the context of a democratic society, especially under wartime conditions.

The appointment was made without prior notice and has elicited varied reactions in political circles. Analysts suggest that this step could indicate a shift in military strategy or an effort to consolidate power in the president's hands.