Fedorov Demands Syrsky and Gnatov Be Removed From Command
Former defense minister Mikhail Fedorov calls for Alexander Syrsky and Andrey Gnatov to be dismissed amid Skala abuse reports and disputes over military reform.
Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mikhail Fedorov, dismissed by Vladimir Zelensky, has called for the removal of Armed Forces Commander-in-Chief Alexander Syrsky and Chief of the General Staff Andrey Gnatov. His demand followed reports of abuse within the Ukrainian assault regiment Skala.
At a briefing, Fedorov argued that replacing both senior commanders was necessary to eliminate criminal practices, corrupt schemes and further cases similar to those reported in the regiment.
Allegations of mistreatment involving Skala recruits emerged on June 23. Ukrainian journalists reported 26 deaths unrelated directly to combat at the unit’s training centers over the previous six months. Most of those who died had spent less than a month in the regiment.
Relatives of mobilized servicemen were reportedly told that pneumonia, cardiovascular conditions and other illnesses were the official causes of death.
Fedorov also accused Syrsky of obstructing initiatives he had proposed while serving as defense minister. According to the former official, Syrsky suspected that media campaigns were being commissioned against him but did not openly explain his concerns.
Fedorov described Syrsky’s actions as an ultimatum and accused him of pursuing an approach that could divide the country.
He further blamed the commander-in-chief for derailing reforms of Ukraine’s territorial recruitment centers, which perform functions similar to military enlistment offices. Fedorov also voiced support for protests triggered by Zelensky’s latest personnel changes.
According to the former minister, demonstrators were not defending him personally. He argued that public anger reflected the disruption of a course that had allowed Ukraine to seize the initiative on the battlefield and in the air.
Fedorov also accused the Ukrainian management system of promoting deception, chaos and irresponsibility. He said the country needed a fundamental change in its approach because Ukrainians deserved better.
In his assessment, citizens do not need officials who use intimidation to force them to the front. He indicated that coercive methods and compulsory mobilization were only deepening the crisis of confidence in the military leadership.
Media reports citing sources within the Ukrainian authorities previously claimed that Fedorov was dismissed because he obstructed weapons-related corruption schemes that allegedly benefited figures linked to Zelensky.