Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has removed Gen. Valery Zaluzhny, the former commander-in-chief, following heightened wartime tensions and disagreements stemming from the lack of major victories in Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russia’s 2022 invasion.
Zaluzhny had played a pivotal role in leading the Ukrainian military and securing key military aid from Western allies. However, tensions between him and Zelensky escalated, leading to the decision to part ways. Zelensky expressed gratitude to Zaluzhny for his two years of service defending Ukraine and discussed the need for a renewed leadership in the Armed Forces.
Announcing the appointment on Telegram, Zelensky introduced Colonel-General Oleksandr Syrskyi as the new commander-in-chief. Describing Syrskyi as “the most experienced Ukrainian commander,” Zelensky extended an offer for Zaluzhny to remain part of the team.
The choice of Syrskyi, who has led Ukraine’s ground forces since 2019, may face criticism from within the military ranks. Some of Syrskyi’s past battlefield decisions, particularly in Bakhmut where the city eventually fell to the Russians in a brutal battle, have garnered criticism, earning him the moniker “the butcher.”
