Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy met senior military commanders on Monday as public protests intensified over the country’s defence leadership. The demonstrations have become the largest since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in 2022.
Thousands of people gathered in Kyiv and other cities for several consecutive days. Protesters demanded the reinstatement of former Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov and the dismissal of Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi.
Military Leadership Faces Mounting Public Criticism
The protests, led largely by young Ukrainians, highlighted growing divisions within the country’s military leadership. Critics accuse Syrskyi of relying on Soviet-era command methods and costly battlefield tactics.
To address the situation, Zelenskiy held separate meetings with five generals and one colonel. The commanders are widely viewed by political analysts as possible successors to Syrskyi.
Those attending included Joint Forces Commander Mykhailo Drapatyi and Deputy Chief of the General Staff Volodymyr Horbatyuk. Additionally, Air Assault Forces Commander Oleh Apostol and corps commanders Andriy Biletsky, Ihor Obolenskyi and Denys Prokopenko participated.
Government Promises Response To Public Concerns
Following the meetings, Zelenskiy’s office released photographs from each discussion. Meanwhile, Chief of Staff Kyrylo Budanov urged national unity and called for patience.
Budanov said authorities had heard public concerns and promised a constructive response. However, he did not announce any immediate leadership changes.
A Gradus poll found that 61 percent of Ukrainians opposed Fedorov’s dismissal. Zelenskiy also confirmed he held lengthy discussions with the former defence minister over the weekend.
According to a source close to Fedorov, he discussed alternative government roles but preferred returning as defence minister. Meanwhile, protest organisers threatened an indefinite nationwide campaign unless Syrskyi is removed and Fedorov is reappointed by July 24.
