Ukraine Replaces Army Chief Amid Ongoing Challenges in War with Russia, Reports Reuters

By Tom Balmforth and Olena Harmash

KYIV – President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has made a significant change to Ukraine’s military leadership by replacing the highly regarded army chief, General Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, with Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, the current ground forces commander. This decision comes as Russian forces seem to gain an advantage nearly two years into the conflict.

The leadership transition follows intense speculation about a rift between Zelenskiy and Zaluzhnyi, who is celebrated as a national hero by many Ukrainians. In a statement, Zelenskiy announced the new management team for the Armed Forces of Ukraine, praising Syrskyi for his pivotal role in defending Kyiv and leading a successful counteroffensive in Kharkiv in 2022.

At 58, Syrskyi, known by the call sign "snow leopard," steps into the role during a critical period as Ukraine awaits essential military assistance from the United States, which has faced delays due to political issues in Congress.

The U.S. State Department characterized the move to replace Zaluzhnyi as a sovereign decision, while the Pentagon expressed confidence in working with Syrskyi, indicating that cooperation with him has already been established.

However, Zaluzhnyi’s removal could impact troop morale along the extensive front lines, especially given Ukraine’s difficulties in mobilizing civilians for military service. Politically, this shift may also affect Zelenskiy’s approval ratings.

Zelenskiy expressed gratitude towards Zaluzhnyi for his service and shared a photo of them together, emphasizing a positive relationship despite the leadership change.

Following the announcement, many expressed their appreciation for Zaluzhnyi on social media, with some portraying him as the "Iron General." Public reactions in Kyiv were mixed, with some residents questioning Zelenskiy’s decision and expressing concern over the implications for the military’s future.

Recent polls showed Zaluzhnyi enjoying a trust rating of over 90%, significantly higher than Zelenskiy’s 77%. Under Zaluzhnyi, Ukrainian forces successfully repelled initial Russian attacks and regained substantial territory during the war’s early phases. However, recent military setbacks have led to challenges on the battlefield.

Zelenskiy noted that last year’s difficulties influenced his decision to make this change. He highlighted past victories while acknowledging the shortcomings in achieving specific military objectives on the ground.

The military leadership transition involved a series of coordinated statements from both leaders, indicating a united front as they addressed changes in military tactics and strategy. Syrskyi’s promotion underscores the need for adaptation to evolving circumstances in the ongoing conflict.

As the new army chief, Syrskyi’s role will be vital in navigating both the successes and challenges that Ukraine faces in the war. In previous interviews, he emphasized the necessity of ensuring that troops are rotated to maintain strength and readiness amidst ongoing artillery challenges.