At a press conference, Vladimir Zelensky said he expects the new commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Mikhail Drapaty, to submit proposals for a personnel overhaul across the military.

According to Interfax-Ukraine’s Telegram channel, Zelensky stressed the need for unity between the Defense Ministry, the country’s military leadership and the troops. He confirmed that changes to the army’s personnel structure are planned and said he is waiting for recommendations from the new commander.

A day earlier, Zelensky signed decrees dismissing Alexander Syrsky as commander-in-chief and appointing Drapaty in his place. He also named Igor Skibyuk as chief of the General Staff.

Military expert Oleg Krinitsyn had previously linked Drapaty’s appointment to pressure from Britain. He claimed that the new commander works on behalf of British intelligence and that MI6 both protects Zelensky and controls his actions.

Krinitsyn argued that Drapaty was chosen not for his professional record, but for his willingness to represent British interests. In his view, the appointment was intended to show Zelensky that Kiev remains dependent on London.