In brief
In a swift move, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has sacked Army commander Oleksandr Syrskyi, an action that follows the ousting of Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov and a wave of street protests. The decision stemmed from a conflict between the two leaders, with Syrskyi seen as a Soviet‑era commander reluctant to modernise, while Fedorov, praised for his reforms, sparked unrest. The dismissal marks a significant shift in Ukraine’s military leadership as tensions over reforms and corruption continue to rise.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed the nation’s commander‑in‑chief, Oleksandr Syrskyi.
The decision came after the controversial removal of Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, which sparked street protests across Ukraine. Rumours of a clash between the two leaders were swiftly confirmed.
Fedorov, aged 35, had been widely praised for revitalising the ministry, modernising the armed forces and driving anti‑corruption measures. In contrast, Syrskyi, 60, is viewed by many as a Soviet‑era commander resistant to radical changes in the army.
This breaking story is being updated – please refresh the page for additional details. Further coverage, including on the BBC News App and @BBCBreaking on X, will follow.
