Ukraine’s Popular ‘Iron General’ Replaced as War Continues

By Tom Balmforth

KYIV (Reuters) – General Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, the commander of Ukraine’s armed forces, was replaced on Thursday after emerging as a national hero by successfully repelling Moscow’s invading forces two years ago. Despite his previous successes, he has faced setbacks on the battlefield as the conflict has continued.

This development puts an end to speculation regarding his position, which has been fueled by reported tensions between him and President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. The president’s authority will be challenged as he works to unite troops under a new army chief and shift the course of the war.

Ukrainian forces are currently struggling, with a counteroffensive initiated last June yielding minimal progress in the southern and eastern regions. Meanwhile, Russian forces are inflicting small but costly defeats at various points along the extensive 1,000-km (620-mile) front.

Western military and financial support has become less certain, leaving Ukraine more vulnerable to assaults by Russian drones and missiles that are depleting its resources.

Zaluzhnyi’s significant popularity and record as an inspiring commander suggest that Zelenskiy’s decision to replace him may be an indication of the need for a new strategy on the battlefield.

In an opinion piece, Zaluzhnyi expressed that Ukraine could only effectively compete with Russia’s larger military through technological advancements, including drones and other advanced weaponry. He also criticized state institutions for not implementing necessary reforms to the mobilization process, as shortages of soldiers and fatigue among current troops continue to rise.

A HERO TO MANY

Against all odds, Ukrainian soldiers managed to thwart Russia’s advance on Kyiv in February 2022, a critical moment that prevented President Vladimir Putin from easily conquering Ukraine. As the conflict progressed, Zaluzhnyi’s reputation grew, particularly after successful counteroffensives in the northeast and south that reclaimed significant territory and raised hopes for a potential victory.

After the liberation of the southern city of Kherson, a portrait of Zaluzhnyi, smiling and making a peace sign, was painted on walls, accompanied by the slogan "God and Zaluzhnyi are with us." Despite the recent stagnation on the battlefield, polls from late last year indicated that 92% of Ukrainians still trusted Zaluzhnyi, significantly higher than Zelenskiy’s approval rating of 77%.

Tensions between the two leaders became more apparent in November when Zaluzhnyi was quoted as stating that the war was at a "stalemate," a starkly pessimistic view that conflicted with Zelenskiy’s more hopeful outlook. The 50-year-old general, known for his infrequent public appearances and strategic discussions in fatigues, emphasized that superior technology was essential for overcoming the current deadlock.

Zelenskiy’s office responded critically, and reports suggested Zaluzhnyi was dismissed by the president. Although Zaluzhnyi has never expressed an interest in a political career, his affinity among the populace could make him a formidable political figure if he chose to enter that arena.

THE BURLY ‘VOLUNTEER’

Zaluzhnyi’s military career began in the 1990s, following Ukraine’s independence from the Soviet Union. He graduated with honors and advanced through the ranks, gaining hands-on experience in conflict zones starting in 2014 when he served in eastern Ukraine, where Russian-backed forces had taken territory.

Known for his considerable stature and approachable demeanor, Zaluzhnyi, with the military nickname "Volunteer," is recognized for maintaining a strong rapport with his subordinates and empowering local commanders on the battlefield. His candid acknowledgment in November that the war was devolving into an attritional phase favorable to Russia diverged from Kyiv’s official messaging, yet for many soldiers, it resonated with the harsh realities they faced.

Since late 2022, Russia has been reinforcing its defensive positions following defeats in Kharkiv and Kherson, which has hindered recent Ukrainian advances. Both sides have suffered tens of thousands of casualties, although accurate official figures remain elusive.

Ukraine urgently needs to bolster its overstretched military ranks; however, the government has struggled to amend recruitment laws needed to mobilize up to half a million additional soldiers. The country has also faced challenges in maintaining critical Western support deemed essential for its defense efforts.

Despite an unfulfilled promise of substantial aid from the United States, the European Union did agree to extend a significant support package to Ukraine after overcoming initial resistance from Hungary. Nevertheless, as the conflict continues into its third year, Zaluzhnyi’s role will be difficult to replicate.