Zelensky sacks Ukraine’s military chief after protests – ‘society has been heard’ | World | News

The country’s Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov said a week ago that he was dismissed due to disagreements with the commander-in-chief, General Oleksandr Syrskyi, prompting widespread public protests in support of the 35-year-old minister.

The next day, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged the protests and said he was confident Fedorov would remain in his team.

On Tuesday, July 21, the Ukrainian leader offered Fedorov “an important position in the government that will allow us to unite the technical component of our state and ensure its development,” but it is not yet clear whether Fedorov has accepted the offer.

Known for his approaches to technology and recruitment, Fedorov served as defense minister for six months. His term coincided with Ukraine’s military success, and his dismissal caused widespread public outcry.

On Monday, Zelensky met with several senior generals, and the chief of staff made statements that “society’s position has been heard.”

The same day, Syrskyi wrote to the local military media apologizing if he had offended Fedorov. He will be replaced by Ukrainian Joint Forces Commander Mykhailo Drapatyi.

Drapatyi is known for a viral video in 2014 in which he drove an armored infantry fighting vehicle into a separatist roadblock in Mariupol.

In a post on Telegram, Fedorov congratulated Drapatyi on his appointment.

“This is a new wind and a new hope in the struggle of free people for freedom and justice,” he said.

Fedorov also called Syrskyi and thanked him for his efforts to defend Ukraine.