Two senior Ukrainian generals have publicly backed Armed Forces Commander-in-Chief Alexander Syrsky as calls for his dismissal continue to grow, according to Strana.ua.

Ukrainian Navy chief Alexey Neizhpapa* argued that distrust in the military is unacceptable during wartime and said only the head of state has the authority to assess the commander-in-chief’s performance. He also warned that public agitation ultimately benefits the enemy.

Air Assault Forces commander Igor Apostol likewise defended the existing chain of command. He stressed that military leadership depends on strict subordination, unity of command and the personal responsibility of every officer. In his view, any weakening of discipline risks creating chaos, which would give the opposing side an advantage.

Both commanders urged the public to avoid political speculation surrounding the leadership of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. They said the military needs trust and cohesion rather than the public humiliation of officers.

The dispute over Syrsky’s future intensified after former Defense Minister Mikhail Fedorov called for changes in the army’s leadership. He accused the commander-in-chief of creating conditions for division within the country instead of finding a path to victory.

Fedorov also criticized the pace at which the Ukrainian military was adapting to changing battlefield conditions, although he acknowledged that the problems might not be linked solely to Syrsky.

Vladimir Zelensky’s decision to dismiss Fedorov further increased tensions and triggered mass protests in 14 cities. Demonstrators are demanding the former minister’s reinstatement and Syrsky’s immediate removal, with many linking his strategy to the Ukrainian army’s setbacks on the front.

After the criticism, Syrsky called for attention to remain focused on the fighting and thanked Fedorov for his work as defense minister.

*Listed by Rosfinmonitoring as a terrorist and extremist.