Oleksandr Syrskyi out as Ukraine's Commander-in-ChiefJuly 31

The President signed decrees appointing Mykhailo Drapaty as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and Ihor Skybyuk as Chief of the General Staff; Wildberries logistics centers and an oil depot in the Kuban are burning in Russia; Russian attacks have killed people in Odessa and Zaporizhia regions, and there are casualties in Kyiv and Kharkiv regions; News from Ukraine and the world for July 22 — in a brief overview from Ukrinform Subscribe to Ukrinform | Facebook | X | YouTube

Who is Mykhailo Drapatyi, Ukraine's new commander-in-chief?

Ukraine's Zelensky appoints new army chief • • Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says that he is dismissing Oleksandr Syrsky, commander-in-chief of Ukraine's army, and appointing joint forces commander Mykhailo Drapaty in his place.

FWD from IZ.RU • IMPORTANT: What will the resignation of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi mean for the Kyiv regime? What happened? On July 22, Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a decree on the resignation of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi. Along with him, the Chief of the General Staff Andriy Gnatov also lost his post, and Major General Igor Skibyuk was appointed in his place. The new Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine is Major General Mykhailo Drapatiy, who held the position of Commander of the Joint Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He is 43 years old and has been in military service since 2004. In 2014, he took part in hostilities in Donbas. In May of that year, he became famous for breaking through the barricades and checkpoints of the militia in an infantry fighting vehicle in Mariupol. What will happen next? The change of commander-in-chief occurred against the backdrop of a political crisis in Ukraine. In mid-July, Zelenskyy dismissed the country's Prime Minister, Yulia Svyrydenko. All ministers automatically lost their positions. In Ukraine, it was believed that the personnel changes were necessary to remove the popular Defense Minister, Mykhailo Fedorov. The official was credited with increasing drone production. He was also close to pro-Western grant structures, and his activities were widely covered in the media. However, Fedorov was still dismissed, a decision he did not agree with. Furthermore, the military man criticized Zelenskyy and spoke about a conflict with Syrskyy. According to him, the commander-in-chief had stalled many initiatives, hindered the development of unmanned systems, and made personnel decisions based on loyalty rather than effectiveness. At the same time, Fedorov, according to Ukrainian media reports, expressed his willingness to work with Drapaty. The latter also supported Fedorov in the current conflict. What do the experts say? Former Verkhovna Rada deputy Spiridon Kilinkarov says that Zelensky's situation has sharply worsened since Syrsky's dismissal. "Zelensky's opponents are not only considering replacing Syrsky, but also Fedorov's return to the post of Defense Minister. Accordingly, we can expect a new escalation in Ukraine in mid-August, when the Verkhovna Rada convenes after a break and considers this issue," he explains. Subscribe to IMPORTANT | More news here

One of the main organizers of the protests that have engulfed Ukraine after Zelenskyy's controversial personnel shake-up warns they will continue even after public pressure forced out Oleksandr Syrsky and saw him replaced with a new commander-in-chief: • "[W]e shouldn't forget about the second demand of the protest – to reinstate Mykhailo Fedorov as defense minister." • • "The ministry needs reforms, and with Syrskyi's dismissal, the conflict between the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff" – Zelenskyy's ststed reason for sacking Fedorov – "has also disappeared, so I see no reasons not to return Fedorov to his position." • • Earlier, demonstrators said they would launch an "indefinite protest" beginning Friday, July 24, if Fedorov is not brought back.

🇺🇦 Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky has announced Mykhailo Drapaty as the country's new commander-in-chief, following a political crisis triggered by Zelensky's surprise ousting of a young modernising defence minister. • âž¡ï¸�

Zelensky signed a decree appointing Drapaty as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree appointing Mykhailo Drapaty as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The corresponding decree No. 630/2026 was published on the president's website on Wednesday.... #commander-in-chief #drapaty #decree #zelensky @interfax_uk

FWD from IZ.RU • IMPORTANT: How did the world media react to the dismissal of Alexander Syrsky from the post of commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine? Bloomberg: Zelenskyy removes Syrsky from his post as army commander-in-chief Ukrainian Armed Forces Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrsky was dismissed following mass protests demanding his resignation. Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced yesterday that Major General Mykhailo Drapatiy would take his place. The protests were sparked by Zelenskyy's dismissal last week of Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, who had been locked in a power struggle with the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. "We've come a long way, Ukraine's defense continues, and every soldier must be treated with dignity," Zelenskyy said in a Telegram post, commenting on Syrskyy's dismissal. Zelensky praised Syrsky for his contribution. He also promised changes to the "military staff configuration," without providing details. Fedorov was offered a "respectable position" to promote the development of Ukrainian technology. CNN: Zelensky fired the commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian army after mass protests Syrsky's successor, 43-year-old Mykhailo Drapatiy, is a younger general who is often hailed as representing a new generation of military leaders. Syrsky, 60, was born in the Vladimir region of Russia, then part of the Soviet Union, and attended a Moscow military academy with classmates who later became Russian commanders. Some critics described him as unimaginative but capable, and he was criticized for protracting the defense of Bakhmut (Artemovsk – Ed.) at great cost in human lives. Associated Press: The new commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces earned his reputation in 2014. Drapatiy is known for his exceptional discipline and high combat effectiveness, and is often deployed to stabilize critical sectors of the front. He rarely appears in public, but has nevertheless earned popularity within the army. "His reputation was formed in 2014 . In May , as a major commanding a battalion of the 72nd Brigade, he led an armored column into the center of Mariupol . When the column's path was blocked by a barricade more than a meter high, Drapatiy, riding in the lead vehicle, ordered the driver to accelerate, and the vehicle leaped over the barrier, as if driving off a ramp. This moment, captured on a widely circulated video, is considered one of the most remarkable episodes of the early period of resistance." The Washington Post: Zelenskyy ousts Ukrainian Armed Forces commander amid ongoing major changes These personnel changes exposed a sharp generational divide among senior leaders just as the Ukrainian armed forces appeared to be gaining a combat advantage over Russia. The dismissal of the defense minister sparked mass protests in Kyiv and other cities. Demonstrators said they feared the move could undermine Ukraine's military efforts and called for his reinstatement. Drapaty supported the ousted defense minister. In recent days, Zelenskyy has come under increasing pressure from lawmakers and protesters to fire Syrskyy. Reuters: Who is Mykhailo Drapatiy, the new commander of the Ukrainian army? During his 26 years of military service, Drapatiy rose through the ranks from lieutenant to combat commander of Ukraine. Last week, he stated that the Ukrainian army needs change and new rules. "As commander of the ground forces, Drapatiy attempted to implement reforms and modernize recruitment and training systems. He then said he wanted to support initiative and flexibility among front-line troops, viewing this as a strength, unlike some other Soviet-trained generals in the Ukrainian army." Subscribe to IMPORTANT | More news here

URGENTLY Zelensky officially dismissed Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Syrsky and appointed Drapatiy – decrees

Zelensky officially signed decrees dismissing Syrsky and appointing Drapaty to the position of Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This is evidenced by decrees published on the website of the Office of the President. According to the decrees, Zelensky officially dismissed Hnatov and appointed Skybyuk as Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. [in reply to: Major General Mykhailo Drapaty announced that he had assumed the duties of Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. According to him, Zelensky set a number of clear tasks for the new military leadership. In particular, this concerns the continuation and intensification of offensive actions in all domains, planning new operations in the rear of Russian troops, development of the army and introduction of technologies, as well as building up the capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.]

ZELENSKY OFFICIALLY REMOVED SYRSKY FROM THE POST OF CHIEF-IN-CHIEF OF THE AFU AND APPOINTED DRAPATY TO THIS POST – DECREE

Decrees appointing Drapaty as Commander-in-Chief and Skybyuk as Chief of the General Staff have been published on the President's website. "To appoint Mykhailo Vasylovich Drapaty as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine," reads decree No. 630/202.

Zelensky officially dismissed Syrsky and appointed Drapaty as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Add News.LIVE as a source of reliable news in Google [in reply to: New Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine: what is known about Major General Ihor Skybyuk Ihor Skybyuk is a Hero of Ukraine and an officer of the Airborne Assault Troops. He participated in the battles for Ilovaisk and Debaltseve, was wounded in 2014, returned to service after treatment, and in 2022 led the defense of Kyiv. Later, the general commanded the 80th separate airborne assault brigade, which participated in the liberation of Izyum during the Kharkiv counteroffensive. It was for this operation that Skybyuk received the title of Hero of Ukraine. Add News.LIVE as a source of reliable news in Google]

Zelensky officially dismissed Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrsky and appointed Mykhailo Drapatiy – decree More IZ RU news in MAX

Zelenskyy dismissed Syrsky and appointed Drapaty as commander-in-chief, - Decrees published on the president's website There is also a Decree on the dismissal of Hnatov. Read only the gist from RBC-Ukraine on Google

Major General Mykhailo Drapaty announced that he had assumed the duties of Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. According to him, Zelensky set a number of clear tasks for the new military leadership. In particular, this concerns the continuation and intensification of offensive actions in all domains, planning new operations in the rear of Russian troops, developing the army and introducing technologies, as well as increasing the capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. [in reply to: In Russia, after the appointment of Mykhailo Drapaty to the position of Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, they reminded that he is on the wanted list of the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs. This was reported by the Russian state agency TASS. The card states that he is wanted under a criminal article, but its number and content are not specified. Information about the search for Drapaty appeared back in September 2023. Then, together with him, Viktor Nikolyuk was declared wanted in the Russian Federation. Previously, the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation in absentia charged Drapatom and Nikoliuk with crimes related to the actions of the Ukrainian military in 2017 and 2019 in Donbas.]

Following the Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the Chief of the General Staff has been replaced: Major General Igor Skibiuk (pictured) has been appointed to this position, replacing Andriy Gnatov. Volodymyr Zelenskyy described Skibiuk as a "very experienced military man." The Ukrainian president noted that today all decisions regarding the replacement of the Ukrainian Armed Forces leadership will be formalized, and the corresponding decrees are being prepared. He also said that it has been determined how former Commander-in-Chief Syrsky and former Chief of the General Staff Gnatov will further serve the defense of the state. RBK Channel on "Max" RBK app for iOS and Android

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reshuffled the country's top military leadership, removing Oleksandr Syrskyy, Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The dismissal of the top security official, which followed his conflict with former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, was a forced decision taken under pressure from protests sweeping Ukraine. The resignation of Syrskyy, who had remained loyal to the president, was a severe blow to Zelenskyy's position, as he is trying to avoid an acute political crisis but is losing control of the army. The new Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces is 43-year-old Mykhailo Drapatiy, who, according to the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs database, is wanted in Russia. In 2023, the Russian Investigative Committee filed charges in absentia against Drapatiy, who commanded Ukrainian army operations in 2017 and 2019. During this period, under his leadership, the Ukrainian Armed Forces carried out more than 70 attacks on the Luhansk and Donetsk People's Republics, killing and wounding 154 people. Subscribe to Kommersant on MAX | on Telegram [in reply to: Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrsky has been dismissed. President Volodymyr Zelensky announced this on Telegram. The new commander-in-chief is Major General Mykhailo Drapatiy, who holds the position of commander of the Joint Forces of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Subscribe to Kommersant on MAX | on Telegram]

Mykhailo Drapatyi assumed the role of commander-in-chief of Ukraine’s armed forces Wednesday while Ihor Skybiuk began work as chief of the General Staff. • • Western defence officials told @FT they were happy with the new appointment. • •

Drapaty: He has assumed the duties of Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine "The President of Ukraine has set us clear tasks - to continue and intensify offensive actions in all domains, plan new operations behind enemy lines, develop the army and technologies in it, and increase the capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine," said Mykhailo Drapaty. There is no official order appointing Drapaty as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine yet, but the President assured that today he will "formalize all decisions." Subscribe to Ukrinform | Facebook | X | YouTube

Drapatiy assumed the duties of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Mykhailo Drapatiy announced that he assumed the duties of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. "The Chief of the General Staff in my team will be Major General Ihor Skybyuk, the former commander of the DShV," Drapatiy wrote on Facebook.... #commander-in-chief #drapatiy @interfax_uk

Drapaty officially assumed the duties of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine He confirmed that Major General Ihor Skybyuk, the former commander of the Airborne Assault Forces, will become the Chief of the General Staff in his command. According to Drapaty, they met in 2022 during the operation to liberate the Kherson region, and since then he has known Skybyuk as a commander who can be trusted in the most difficult circumstances. Drapaty also stated that the president has set the new command the task of strengthening offensive operations, planning new operations behind enemy lines, developing the army, and increasing the capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. [in reply to: Commander of the "flying infantry fighting vehicle": what is known about the new Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Mykhailo Drapatyi President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that the new Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine will be Mykhailo Drapatyi, a major general who rose from a battalion commander to one of the key commanders of the Ukrainian army. At the beginning of the Russian aggression in 2014, Drapatyi commanded the 2nd battalion of the 72nd Motorized Rifle Brigade. It was then that the famous video of the "flying BMP" that broke through the barricade of pro-Russian militants in Mariupol appeared. In the summer of 2014, he withdrew 260 soldiers and more than 30 pieces of equipment from the Izvarynsk Cauldron, covering more than 160 km under enemy fire. Later, he commanded the 58th Separate Motorized Infantry Brigade, carried out combat missions in the Avdiivka area and the Bakhmut highway. In 2021, he received the Queen's Transitional Sword as the best graduate of the National Defense University of Ukraine. During the full-scale war, he led the "South", "Kherson", "Kharkiv" OTU, as well as the "Luhansk" operational-tactical group. In November 2024, he was appointed commander Land Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and after his resignation in June 2025, he headed the Joint Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Now Mykhailo Drapaty will lead the Armed Forces of Ukraine as the new Commander-in-Chief. Add News.LIVE as a reliable news source on Google]

The new Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine: what is known about Major General Igor Skybyuk Skybyuk is a Hero of Ukraine and an officer of the Airborne Assault Forces. He participated in the battles for Ilovaisk and Debaltseve, was wounded in 2014, returned to service after treatment, and in 2022 led the defense of Kyiv. Later, the general commanded the 80th separate airborne assault brigade, which participated in the liberation of Izyum during the Kharkiv counteroffensive. It was for this operation that Skybyuk received the title of Hero of Ukraine. Add News.LIVE as a reliable news source in Google [in reply to: The new Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine will be Major General Ihor Skybyuk, — Zelensky President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that decisions on changing the leadership of the Armed Forces of Ukraine will be formalized today. According to him, the relevant decrees are already being prepared. He also noted that together with the new Commander-in-Chief Mykhailo Drapaty and Acting Minister of Defense Yevhen Khmara, they determined the further directions of service for Oleksandr Syrsky and Andriy Hnatov. Add News.LIVE as a reliable news source in Google]

The priority for the real ability of the Armed Forces of Ukraine to perform defense tasks is a practical, effective mobilization process, — Zelensky [in reply to: The new Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine will be Major General Ihor Skybyuk, — Zelensky President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that decisions on changing the leadership of the Armed Forces of Ukraine will be formalized today. According to him, the relevant decrees are already being prepared. He also noted that together with the new Commander-in-Chief Mykhailo Drapaty and Acting Minister of Defense Yevhen Khmara, they determined the further directions of service for Oleksandr Syrsky and Andriy Hnatov. Add News.LIVE as a source of reliable news in Google]

Major General Ihor Skibiuk will become the new Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Zelenskyy announced. Previously, this position was held by Gnatov. [in reply to: One former commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine consoles another former commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine: Zaluzhny published a photo where he is hugging Syrskyy. In his post, the Ukrainian Ambassador to the UK stated that Drapatomy will have a much harder time in his new position than he imagines. Syrskyy, in his farewell post, wrote that he “will continue to serve Ukraine.” He also added that his “job is war,” and this principle does not depend on the position he holds. ]

FWD from Zelenskiy / Official: We have determined the order of further steps. Today, decisions on replacing the leadership of the Armed Forces of Ukraine will be formalized - the relevant decrees are being prepared. Together with Mykhailo Drapaty and Yevhen Khmara, we determined that the new Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine will be Major General Ihor Skybyuk - a very experienced military man, with whom the new Commander-in-Chief defended Ukraine side by side. It is important that all components of our army continue to function in complete harmony. We also determined together how Oleksandr Syrsky and Andriy Hnatov will serve to protect our state in the future. We discussed what organizational decisions should be implemented. In particular, this concerns the development of Ukrainian cyber forces, the training of soldiers and strengthening the capabilities of our units, and the development of the corps system. It was noted that the priority for the real ability of the Armed Forces of Ukraine to perform defense tasks is a practical, effective mobilization process. I thanked the Defense Forces of Ukraine for implementing the long-range sanctions plan against Russia, as well as for the rhythm of performing mid-strikes. Yevhen Khmara is dealing with the issues of supply for deep strikes and mid-strikes that were discussed these days with combat commanders and weapons manufacturers. We analyzed the current situation and the implementation of our defense tasks in the Oleksandrivka direction, in the Donetsk region and other areas of intensive combat operations. I thank all Ukrainian units for the strength and full implementation of the relevant operations. We identified steps, decisions and appointments of officials who should accelerate the implementation of key initiatives in the field of sky protection - our anti-ballistic program "Freya", work with the United States on licenses for the production of "Patriots", as well as cooperation with our European partners on certain joint programs. Thank you Oleksandr Syrsky and Andriy Hnatov! I wish Mykhailo Drapatom and Ihor Skybyuk good luck in battle, victories for Ukraine and success in defeating the Russian occupiers! Glory to the Armed Forces of Ukraine! Glory to Ukraine!

The Chief of the General Staff will be Major General Ihor Skybyuk, - Zelensky This is a very experienced military man, with whom the new Commander-in-Chief Drapaty defended Ukraine side by side. "It is important that all components of our army continue to function in complete harmony. We also jointly determined how Oleksandr Syrskyi and Andriy Hnatov will serve to protect our state in the future," the statement said. Read only the gist from RBC-Ukraine on Google

We determined the order of further steps. Today, decisions on replacing the leadership of the Armed Forces of Ukraine will be formalized - the relevant decrees are being prepared. Together with Mykhailo Drapaty and Yevhen Khmara, we determined that the new Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine will be Major General Ihor Skybyuk - a very experienced military man, with whom the new Commander-in-Chief defended Ukraine side by side. It is important that all components of our army continue to function in complete harmony. We also determined together how Oleksandr Syrsky and Andriy Hnatov will serve to protect our state in the future. We discussed what organizational decisions should be implemented. In particular, this concerns the development of Ukrainian cyber forces, the training of soldiers and strengthening the capabilities of our units, and the development of the corps system. It was noted that the priority for the real ability of the Armed Forces of Ukraine to perform defense tasks is a practical, effective mobilization process. I thanked the Defense Forces of Ukraine for implementing the long-range sanctions plan against Russia, as well as for the rhythm of performing mid-strikes. Yevhen Khmara is dealing with the issues of supply for deep strikes and mid-strikes that were discussed these days with combat commanders and weapons manufacturers. We analyzed the current situation and the implementation of our defense tasks in the Oleksandrivka direction, in the Donetsk region and other areas of intensive combat operations. I thank all Ukrainian units for the strength and full implementation of the relevant operations. We identified steps, decisions and appointments of officials who should accelerate the implementation of key initiatives in the field of sky protection - our anti-ballistic program "Freya", work with the United States on licenses for the production of "Patriots", as well as cooperation with our European partners on certain joint programs. Thank you Oleksandr Syrsky and Andriy Hnatov! I wish Mykhailo Drapatom and Ihor Skybyuk good luck in battle, victories for Ukraine and success in defeating the Russian occupiers! Glory to the Armed Forces of Ukraine! Glory to Ukraine!

Budanov thanked Syrsky and confirmed full support for Drapatom Head of the Presidential Office Kyrylo Budanov thanked the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrsky, who is leaving his post. He also expressed full support for the next Commander-in-Chief, Mykhailo Drapatom. "The President, the Supreme Commander-in-Chief, has made an extremely important personnel decision to renew the command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Now the main thing is command of the troops and full concentration on the front, because the enemy does not pause in the war," Budanov's post on Telegram on Wednesday said. ...

One former commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces consoles another former commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces: Zaluzhny published a photo where he is hugging Syrsky. In his post, the Ukrainian Ambassador to the UK stated that Drapatoy will have a much harder time in his new position than he imagines. Syrsky, in his farewell post, wrote that he will "continue to serve Ukraine." He also added that his "job is war," and this principle does not depend on the position he holds. [in reply to: The appointment of Drapatoy to replace Syrsky was the culmination of Zelenskyy's large-scale crisis, NBC notes. The Guardian newspaper wrote that the post should be filled by a person who does not pose a political threat to Zelenskyy. Some facts about the new commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces: He is wanted in Russia. The Investigative Committee previously filed charges against Drapatoy in absentia. Under his leadership, Ukrainian militants carried out more than 70 shellings of populated areas of the DPR and LPR, killing and wounding 154 people. He took charge of the Ground Forces in November 2024, replacing Alexander Pavlyuk. In June 2025, he resigned amid scandal after a series of raids on training centers, effectively accusing commanders of not respecting the lives of soldiers. He also spoke of "mutual responsibility and impunity" in the Ukrainian Armed Forces. However, Drapatoy was not dismissed from the army. On June 3, 2025, after a conversation with Zelenskyy, he was appointed Commander of the Joint Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Also, on October 20, 2025, he became Commander of the force group responsible for the Kharkiv region. ]

As Supreme Commander-in-Chief, the President has made an extremely important personnel decision to renew the leadership of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Right now, our top priority is the command and control of our forces and complete focus on the front, because the enemy takes no pauses in this war. • • General Oleksandr Syrskyi, my sincere gratitude for your years of the hardest work, for your resilience, and for your dedication to Ukraine. You have done an extraordinary amount for Ukraine's defense. This includes defense of Kyiv, the Kharkiv operation, the most difficult sectors of the front — and ultimately taking command of the Armed Forces at one of the most critical moments of the war. • • We worked together on those operations with the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine, which I led, and I witnessed that work firsthand. • • I have known Mykhailo Drapatyi for a long time. He is a commander with real battlefield instincts who assesses the situation with a clear head, makes decisions quickly, and protects his people. The army trusts him, and that trust has been earned in combat. Mykhailo Vasylovych, major tasks lie ahead, and you have everything it takes to accomplish them. • • The army is strong, and its leadership is in reliable hands. We know what we stand for, and we know where we are headed. Our resilience is the path to victory. • • You can count on my full support and assistance. Our strength lies in our unity and in the responsibility of each of us.

The President, the Supreme Commander-in-Chief, has made an extremely important personnel decision to renew the command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The main thing now is to control the troops and fully concentrate on the front, because the enemy does not pause in the war. General Oleksandr Syrsky, sincere gratitude for the years of the most difficult work, for your endurance and devotion to Ukraine. You have done an extraordinary amount to protect Ukraine. The defense of Kyiv, the Kharkiv operation, the most difficult sections of the front, and in general, taking command of the Armed Forces at one of the most critical moments of the war. We worked side by side in these operations - together with the GUR, which I headed, and I saw this work. I have known Mykhailo Drapaty for a long time. He is a commander with a real sense of battle, who soberly assesses the situation, makes decisions quickly, and protects people. The army trusts him, and this is a military merit. Mikhail Vasilyevich, great tasks lie ahead, and you have everything to accomplish them. The army is strong, the command is in reliable hands. We know what we stand for, and we know where we are going. Our steadfastness is the path to victory. You can count on my full support and assistance. Our strength lies in the unity and responsibility of everyone.

Oleksandr Syrsky made his first statement since resigning as Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. He stated that he would continue to serve Ukraine, regardless of his position. The Ukrainian military leader summarized his work on his Telegram channel. The general stated that during his command, changes affected not only combat operations, but also the structure of the army itself. He noted that Ukraine, for the first time in the world, created a separate branch of the armed forces—the Unmanned Systems Force. In addition, the Ukrainian army was transferred to a corps structure, and combat officers were appointed to headquarters. Syrsky added that his "job is war," and this principle does not depend on the position he holds. RBC channel on "Max" RBC app for iOS and Android [in reply to: Mykhailo Drapatiy will become the new Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, announced Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He wrote in the Telegram channel that "a new configuration" of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has been determined. Zelenskyy also expressed gratitude to the outgoing commander-in-chief, Oleksandr Syrskyy. "The fact remains: Oleksandr Syrskyy ensured Ukraine's results in the defense of Kyiv, in the Kharkiv offensive operation, and in the Kursk operation," Zelenskyy wrote. According to the Financial Times, the Ukrainian leader is considering dismissing Syrskyy to overcome the political crisis that began due to the resignation of Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. Photo: armyinform.com. ua / Wikipedia RBC Channel on "Max" RBC App for iOS and Android]

Former Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Syrsky announced that he is handing over the army, which is in a state of offensive, to the new Commander-in-Chief Drapatom. "This year, 700 square kilometers of our land have been liberated under my command. The army, which two years ago was conducting a heavy defense, is advancing today," he emphasized. Syrsky also listed numerous operations carried out during his tenure, including Kursk. "I have no right to speak about some of the operations that we have implemented over the years. History will tell about them," he added subscribe

The appointment of Drapatyi to replace Syrskyi was the culmination of Zelenskyy's large-scale crisis, NBC notes. The Guardian newspaper wrote that the post should be filled by a person who would not pose a political threat to Zelenskyy. Some facts about the new commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces: Wanted in Russia. Previously, the Investigative Committee filed charges against Drapatoy in absentia. Under his leadership, Ukrainian militants carried out more than 70 shelling attacks on populated areas of the DPR and LPR, killing and wounding 154 people. He took charge of the Ground Forces in November 2024, replacing Oleksandr Pavlyuk. In June 2025, he resigned amid scandal after a series of attacks on training centers, effectively accusing commanders of not respecting the lives of soldiers. He also spoke of "mutual responsibility and impunity" in the Ukrainian Armed Forces. However, Drapatoy was not dismissed from the army. On June 3, 2025, after a conversation with Zelenskyy, he was appointed Commander of the Joint Forces of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Also, from October 20, 2025, he became the commander of the group of forces responsible for the Kharkiv region. [in reply to: Oleksandr Syrsky was removed from the post of commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Zelenskyy announced. The head of the Kyiv regime thanked Syrskyy for Ukraine's front-line positions. "Oleksandr Syrskyy ensured Ukraine's results in the defense of Kyiv, in the Kharkiv offensive operation, in the Kursk operation," said Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Mykhailo Drapatiy has been appointed the new commander-in-chief. The composition of the General Staff of the Ukrainian troops will also be updated. ]

It will be much harder for the new Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine than he imagines, — Zaluzhny This is how the former Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (2021–2024) and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to the United Kingdom Valery Zaluzhny commented on the change in the leadership of the Armed Forces. At the same time, Ambassador Valery Zaluzhny did not mention Oleksandr Syrsky in his post. Add News.LIVE as a source of reliable news in Google [in reply to: Drapatiy reacted to the appointment of the new Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Mykhailo Drapatiy thanked the President of Ukraine for the trust after the decision to appoint him as the new Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. I thank the President of Ukraine for the trust, the Minister of Defense for the support, and the Defense Forces for the new stage of service. Serving Ukraine has always been an honor for me, and during the war for independence it meant absolute responsibility, — Drapatiy wrote. He also expressed his gratitude to General Oleksandr Syrsky. I am grateful to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrsky for his consistent work to strengthen the Ukrainian army. I grew up in it. The newly appointed Commander-in-Chief added that he will work "responsibly, focused and with respect for the people who are defending our state today." Add News.LIVE as a source of reliable news in Google]

Syrsky announced that he is leaving the post of Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and summed up his work The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrsky announced the completion of his work in the post, stating that he is handing over the army to his successor, which, according to him, is not only maintaining defense, but is also in a state of offensive, and also summed up his command in an address published on Facebook. "Today I am leaving the post of Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Before handing over command, I will say a few words. For every officer, this is the greatest responsibility - to lead the army during a major war," Syrsky wrote.... #resignation #syrsky @interfax_uk

Syrsky summed up his work as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The main thing he said: "I have seen this war from its first day in 2014, lived at the front and know the price of every liberated kilometer of Ukrainian land." Syrsky recalled the defense of Kyiv in February-March 2022, the removal of the threat of encirclement of Kharkiv and the counteroffensive in the Kharkiv region, during which the Armed Forces of Ukraine liberated Balaklia, Izyum and Kupyansk, and the destruction of the Wagner PMC. Separately, he spoke about the decision to withdraw Ukrainian units from Avdiivka in February 2024. According to Syrsky, this order was necessary to save the lives of soldiers who were semi-encircled. Among other results, he named the stopping of the Russian offensive in the Kharkiv region, the prevention of offensive actions in the Sumy region and the conduct of the Kursk operation. Syrsky stressed that its goal was to disrupt the plans of the Russian troops, pull back their units and replenish the exchange fund. He mentioned the creation of the Unmanned Systems Forces, the development of drone interceptor units, the strengthening of air defense and the army's transition to a corps structure. According to Syrsky, this year the Armed Forces of Ukraine liberated 700 square kilometers of territory. He stated that he was leaving his successor an army with initiative, a formed structure and the ability to continue offensive operations. In conclusion, Syrsky thanked the Ukrainian military and the families of the fallen defenders, assuring that he would continue to serve Ukraine. [in reply to: Mykhailo Fedorov reported that he had called the former Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Syrsky to thank him for his role in the "historic battles" during Russia's war against Ukraine. In his opinion, the defense of the Kyiv region, the Kharkiv operation, and other battles are an important part of Ukrainian history. Fedorov added that "we need to move even faster and write new chapters, correcting all previous mistakes."]

SYRSKIY DECLARED THAT HE WAS LEAVING THE POSITION OF COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF OF THE AFU AND SUMMARIZED THE RESULTS OF HIS WORK

Syrsky announced his resignation He made his first official statement following his resignation. Oleksandr Syrsky announced that he is resigning on July 22.

Syrsky: "I am handing over to my successor an army that is not only on the defensive, but also on the offensive" [in reply to: Syrsky leaves the post of Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine: summed up his work Main: He stated that he does not regret the order to withdraw troops from Avdiivka, because the priority was to save the lives of the military. He recalled the defense of Kyiv, the liberation of Kharkiv region, the Kursk operation and stated that its goal was to thwart the Russian offensive on Sumy and Kharkiv regions and replenish the exchange fund. He noted that under his command the Unmanned Systems Forces were created as a separate branch of the armed forces, a separate command of unmanned air defense systems and a system of drone interceptors.]

Syrskyi leaves the post of Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine: summed up his work Main: He stated that he does not regret the order to withdraw troops from Avdiivka, because the priority was to save the lives of the military. He recalled the defense of Kyiv, the liberation of the Kharkiv region, the Kursk operation and stated that its goal was to thwart the Russian offensive on the Sumy and Kharkiv regions and replenish the exchange fund. He noted that under his command, the Unmanned Systems Forces were created as a separate branch of the armed forces, a separate command of unmanned air defense systems, and a system of drone interceptors. [in reply to: Drapatiy reacted to the appointment as the new Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Mykhailo Drapatiy thanked the President of Ukraine for the trust after the decision to appoint him as the new Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. I thank the President of Ukraine for the trust, the Minister of Defense for the support, and the Defense Forces for the new stage of service. Serving Ukraine has always been an honor for me, and during the war for independence it meant absolute responsibility, — Drapatiy wrote. He also expressed his gratitude to General Oleksandr Syrsky. I am grateful to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrsky for his consistent work to strengthen the Ukrainian army. I grew up in it. The newly appointed Commander-in-Chief added that he will work "responsibly, focused and with respect for the people who are defending our state today." Add News.LIVE as a reliable news source on Google]

FWD from SYRSKIY: Warriors. Ukrainians. Today I am leaving the post of Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Before I hand over command, I would like to say a few words. For every officer, this is the greatest responsibility - to lead an army during a great war. I have seen this war from its first day in 2014, I lived at the front and I know the price of every liberated kilometer of Ukrainian land. In February-March 2022, I had the honor of commanding the defense of Kyiv, and through our joint efforts, the capital held out. That same spring, the threat of a full siege of Kharkiv was lifted. Then there was the offensive in the Kharkiv region, when in a matter of weeks we liberated Balaklia, Izyum, and Kupyansk. Later, in the Donetsk region, we destroyed the most combat-ready part of the Russian army - the Wagner PMC. I took command of the army in February 2024, at a very difficult time. The defense of Avdiivka was ongoing. Our units were semi-encircled. One of my first orders in office was to order an organized withdrawal from the city. It was a difficult decision. But I made it because for me there was one main priority: saving people's lives. And then there was a year that changed the course of this war. Together we stopped the enemy's offensive in the Kharkiv region. We prevented his offensive in the Sumy region. And we carried out the Kursk operation - for the first time in this war, we moved combat operations to enemy territory. I want this to be recorded clearly: our goal was never the occupation of foreign land. Our goal was to disrupt the enemy's prepared offensive on Sumy and Kharkiv, to draw away his most combat-ready troops, and to replenish the exchange fund in order to return our people from captivity. All of this was accomplished. We changed the army not only on the battlefield, but also at its core. We were the first in the world to create a separate branch of the armed forces — the Unmanned Systems Forces. We grew them from individual units to a system that today makes the enemy feel that he has no safe rear. We built a new air defense: we created a separate command of unmanned air defense systems, formed regular units of interceptor drone crews, and built an echeloned system of covering the sky over the rear. What was recently an experiment of enthusiasts today knocks down every night what was considered unassailable. We closed the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk, and are systematically destroying the enemy's "shadow fleet." We transferred the army to a corps structure, brought combat officers into headquarters, and made it a rule: the path to leadership positions lies through the front. Liberating Ukrainian territories, we conducted a successful Dobropil operation and an offensive operation in the Oleksandrivka direction. We continue to restrain the enemy's offensive in the main directions and conduct offensive operations in separate sections of the front. I have no right to speak about some of the operations that we have implemented over the years. History will tell about them. I will only say: the enemy remembered them. And about the most important thing - in what condition I hand over the battlefield. This year, under my command, 700 square kilometers of our land have been liberated. The army, which two years ago waged a heavy defense, is advancing today. I am handing over to my successor an army that is not only on the defensive, but also on the offensive — with initiative, with structure, with people who know how to beat the enemy. And I sincerely hope that this offensive will be continued. Everything is there for this. I thank every soldier, sergeant, and officer with whom I have spent these years. I bow to the families of our fallen. I said it before and I will repeat it today: my job is war. Positions change, but this principle does not. Whatever my status, I will serve Ukraine until Victory. For a long time, they tried to impose on us that Ukrainians are not capable of fighting. We proved that this is not so. Ukraine is defended by a heroic people. Our country will survive if everyone does their job as diligently as the Ukrainian army does. Glory to Ukraine!

Warriors. Ukrainians. Today I am leaving the post of Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Before I hand over command, I would like to say a few words. For every officer, this is the greatest responsibility - to lead an army during a great war. I have seen this war from its first day in 2014, I lived at the front and I know the price of every liberated kilometer of Ukrainian land. In February-March 2022, I had the honor of commanding the defense of Kyiv, and through our joint efforts, the capital held out. That same spring, the threat of a full siege of Kharkiv was lifted. Then there was the offensive in the Kharkiv region, when in a matter of weeks we liberated Balaklia, Izyum, and Kupyansk. Later, in the Donetsk region, we destroyed the most combat-ready part of the Russian army - the Wagner PMC. I took command of the army in February 2024, at a very difficult time. The defense of Avdiivka was ongoing. Our units were semi-encircled. One of my first orders in office was to order an organized withdrawal from the city. It was a difficult decision. But I made it because for me there was one main priority: saving people's lives. And then there was a year that changed the course of this war. Together we stopped the enemy's offensive in the Kharkiv region. We prevented his offensive in the Sumy region. And we carried out the Kursk operation - for the first time in this war, we moved combat operations to enemy territory. I want this to be recorded clearly: our goal was never the occupation of foreign land. Our goal was to disrupt the enemy's prepared offensive on Sumy and Kharkiv, to draw away his most combat-ready troops, and to replenish the exchange fund in order to return our people from captivity. All of this was accomplished. We changed the army not only on the battlefield, but also at its core. We were the first in the world to create a separate branch of the armed forces — the Unmanned Systems Forces. We grew them from individual units to a system that today makes the enemy feel that he has no safe rear. We built a new air defense: we created a separate command of unmanned air defense systems, formed regular units of interceptor drone crews, and built an echeloned system of covering the sky over the rear. What was recently an experiment of enthusiasts today knocks down every night what was considered unassailable. We closed the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk, and are systematically destroying the enemy's "shadow fleet." We transferred the army to a corps structure, brought combat officers into headquarters, and made it a rule: the path to leadership positions lies through the front. Liberating Ukrainian territories, we conducted a successful Dobropil operation and an offensive operation in the Oleksandrivka direction. We continue to restrain the enemy's offensive in the main directions and conduct offensive operations in separate sections of the front. I have no right to speak about some of the operations that we have implemented over the years. History will tell about them. I will only say: the enemy remembered them. And about the most important thing - in what condition I hand over the battlefield. This year, under my command, 700 square kilometers of our land have been liberated. The army, which two years ago waged a heavy defense, is advancing today. I am handing over to my successor an army that is not only on the defensive, but also on the offensive — with initiative, with structure, with people who know how to beat the enemy. And I sincerely hope that this offensive will be continued. Everything is there for this. I thank every soldier, sergeant, and officer with whom I have spent these years. I bow to the families of our fallen. I said it before and I will repeat it today: my job is war. Positions change, but this principle does not. Whatever my status, I will serve Ukraine until Victory. For a long time, they tried to impose on us that Ukrainians are not capable of fighting. We proved that this is not so. Ukraine is defended by a heroic people. Our country will survive if everyone does their job as diligently as the Ukrainian army does. Glory to Ukraine!

Mykhailo Fedorov reported that he called former Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Syrsky to thank him for his role in the “historic battles” during Russia’s war against Ukraine. In his opinion, the defense of the Kyiv region, the Kharkiv operation, and other battles are an important part of Ukraine’s history. Fedorov added that “we need to move even faster and write new chapters, correcting all previous mistakes.” [in reply to: Zelensky dismissed Syrsky from the post of Commander-in-Chief of the Defense Forces. Major General Mykhailo Drapatiy will be the new commander-in-chief. The president announced this in an evening address. He announced his decision to Syrsky at a meeting on Tuesday, July 21, a source in the President’s Office told Sospilno.]

President Zelenskyy dismisses Ukrainian military commander-in-chief, marking an unusual situation with the successive changes in the defense minister and military leadership.

Supply issues and organizational decisions will be discussed at the Headquarters, not the appointment of the Commander-in-Chief – Lytvyn Reports that the issue of appointing a new Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine will allegedly be discussed at the meeting of the Headquarters of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief are incorrect, said Presidential Communications Advisor Dmytro Lytvyn. "Someone has been reporting that the issue of a new Commander-in-Chief will be discussed at the Headquarters today – this is incorrect," Lytvyn told reporters on Monday. ...

Rumors about the resignation of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrsky, have been denied by the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. More news from IZ RU in MAX [in reply to: Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrsky, is to be dismissed today, according to Ukrainian media. He took up this position in February 2024, when he replaced Valeriy Zaluzhny. More news from IZ RU in MAX]

The information that has appeared in the information space, in particular, in social networks and some media outlets regarding the alleged dismissal of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, General Oleksandr Syrsky, from his post is not true. General Oleksandr Syrsky continues to perform his duties as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Lieutenant General Andriy Gnatov, also continues to perform his functional duties. The dismissal from these positions is based on the Decree of the President of Ukraine.