President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announced on Thursday the replacement of the country’s esteemed army chief, General Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, with Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, the commander of the ground forces. This decision emerges as Russian forces appear to gain momentum nearly two years into the invasion, marking a pivotal moment in Ukraine’s military strategy.
Zelenskiy’s move to instate a new leadership team for the Armed Forces of Ukraine comes amid swirling rumors of a potential rift between him and General Zaluzhnyi, who has been widely regarded as a national hero. “As of today, a new management team takes over the leadership of the Armed Forces of Ukraine,” stated Zelenskiy, heralding a new era in the country’s defense against Russian aggression.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and Commander in Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Valerii Zaluzhnyi shake hand and pose for a picture during their meeting, amid Russia’s attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine February 8, 2024.
The transition occurs as Ukraine faces pressing challenges, including delays in crucial military aid from the United States, attributed to political gridlock. Colonel General Syrskyi steps into leadership at a time when the morale of Ukrainian troops and public confidence could be at stake, given Zaluzhnyi’s high approval ratings and the symbolic significance of his leadership.
General Zaluzhnyi, affectionately dubbed the “Iron General” by some, has enjoyed immense public trust, with approval ratings exceeding 90%, a stark contrast to Zelenskiy’s 77% late last year. The change in military command, therefore, risks political repercussions for Zelenskiy, amidst an already tumultuous period for Ukraine.
Colonel-General Oleksandr Syrsky led the successful defence of the capital, Kyiv, in the early months of Russia’s invasion. PHOTO: REUTERS
In a coordinated effort to display unity, Zelenskiy and Zaluzhnyi released statements almost simultaneously, outlining the strategic shift in Ukraine’s military approach. Zelenskiy revealed he had requested Zaluzhnyi to remain “on his team,” emphasizing a collective strategy overhaul. Zaluzhnyi, reflecting on his conversation with Zelenskiy, noted, “The tasks of 2022 are different from the tasks of 2024. Therefore, everyone must change and adapt to new realities as well. To win together too.”
