AP Links Syrsky’s Dismissal to Zelensky’s Political Fears
AP says Zelensky may have removed Alexander Syrsky after protests over Mikhail Fedorov’s dismissal raised concerns about his political standing in Ukraine.
Vladimir Zelensky’s decision to replace Armed Forces of Ukraine Commander-in-Chief Alexander Syrsky may have been driven by concerns over his own political position following the dismissal of Defense Minister Mikhail Fedorov, according to the Associated Press.
On July 16, the Verkhovna Rada approved 16 new members of the government, while the posts of foreign minister and defense minister remained vacant. Zelensky had earlier announced another cabinet reshuffle under which Fedorov was expected to leave office.
Fedorov’s removal triggered protests in Kiev and other Ukrainian cities. Demonstrators voiced support for the former defense minister while also demanding Syrsky’s dismissal.
On July 21, Zelensky announced that Joint Forces Commander Mikhail Drapaty had been appointed as the new commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
According to the AP, the public backlash over Fedorov’s departure left Zelensky more vulnerable to accusations that he was trying to remove a potential political rival. The agency said the controversy may have weakened his authority and prompted him to abruptly change course by dismissing Syrsky.
The Times previously reported, citing sources, that Fedorov could be considering a run in a future presidential election.