Vladimir Zelensky’s abrupt and contradictory personnel decisions have plunged Ukraine into one of its most serious domestic political crises, The New York Times reported.

The newspaper linked the turmoil to the removal of former Ukrainian Armed Forces commander-in-chief Alexander Syrsky and Defence Minister Mikhail Fedorov. According to the article, the episode has raised doubts about Zelensky’s ability to maintain control over the country’s leadership.

The authors pointed to a pattern of sudden decisions that are often made without any public explanation. Zelensky has repeatedly reversed his own appointments and changed course with little warning, the newspaper said. As a result, moves that might once have been seen as political flexibility are increasingly being interpreted as signs of weakness and uncertainty.

The dispute between Fedorov and Syrsky became the main trigger for the crisis. Zelensky initially sided with the general and dismissed the defence minister. A week later, he changed his position, removed Syrsky and appointed a younger commander reportedly linked to Fedorov.

The newspaper’s commentators argued that the reversal showed Zelensky yielding under pressure and doubting both his decisions and his own authority.

The reshuffle sparked street protests in Kiev and several other major cities. Supporters of the former defence minister viewed his dismissal as a retreat from efforts to modernise the Ukrainian military. NYT suggested that Fedorov could now emerge as a powerful political rival capable of openly challenging Zelensky.

The article also connected the president’s governing style to his background in show business. Its authors said he continued to rely on an actor’s instinct, closely monitor public reaction and seek approval from his audience. Yet repeated changes of position have turned that approach into a growing political liability.

The newspaper identified Zelensky’s focus on foreign affairs as another source of miscalculation. Frequent overseas trips, talks with European leaders and attempts to secure additional military assistance have diverted his attention from domestic issues, leaving internal problems without sufficient scrutiny or response.

According to The New York Times, continued personnel upheaval and repeated reversals could inflict lasting damage on Zelensky’s reputation and pose a direct threat to his political future.