
Ukraine’s Zelenskiy Considering Replacement of Zaluzhnyi and Others, Reports Reuters
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed in a recent interview that he is contemplating a significant “reset” involving the replacement of several high-ranking officials. This comes amid ongoing speculation regarding the potential dismissal of Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, the widely respected commander, with whom Zelenskiy has reportedly had disagreements regarding the ongoing Russian invasion.
Zelenskiy clarified that any changes would not pertain to just one individual, but rather aim to unify efforts to remove Russian forces from Ukraine. He stated, “When I speak of turnover, I have in mind something serious that does not concern a single person, but the direction of the country’s leadership.” He emphasized the need for a collective push towards victory, urging that negativity and surrendering attitudes must be left behind.
Tensions have heightened following a Ukrainian counteroffensive launched last year, which has made limited headway against entrenched Russian forces along the extensive front lines in southern and eastern Ukraine. In a previous essay, Zaluzhnyi characterized the conflict as entering a phase of attrition, prompting criticism from the president.
Recently, as speculation surrounding Zaluzhnyi’s position grew, he published a commentary advocating for new electronic warfare tactics and highlighted institutional challenges hindering Ukraine’s ability to strengthen its military forces, which includes “unpopular measures” like mass mobilization.
Zaluzhnyi is credited with leading successful operations to repel Russian advances early in the war and regain control of significant territories. Despite persistent rumors about his potential dismissal, official statements from the president’s office have denied that any changes have been made.
There is also discussion around whether Zaluzhnyi might be offered a different role, such as an ambassadorship, with speculation surrounding who might succeed him. Two prominent candidates mentioned include Oleksandr Syrskyi, commander of land forces, and Kyrylo Budanov, head of the Ukrainian defense ministry’s intelligence directorate.