Ukraine’s President Zelensky Fires Top Army Commander Amid Protests


Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed Commander‑in‑Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi.


The decision comes just days after the controversial removal of Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, a move that sparked widespread street protests across Ukraine.


Rumours that the change in ministry leadership stemmed from a conflict between the two officials were rapidly confirmed. Fedorov, aged 35, was celebrated for energising the ministry, transforming the armed forces and spearheading a corruption‑eradication drive.


Syrskyi, 60, is viewed by many as a Soviet‑school commander wary of radical reforms. His dismissal signals a shift toward a more reform‑oriented military strategy.


This breaking news story is being updated — please refresh the page for the full version.


You can receive Breaking News on a smartphone or tablet via the (BBC News App) or (@BBCBreaking on X) to get the latest alerts.



Dynamic illustration of the Russian invasion