Zelenskyy weighs dismissing Ukraines military chief as protests over Fedorov sacking spread

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Zelenskyy weighs dismissing Ukraines military chief as protests over Fedorov sacking spread
Zelenskyy dismisses Ukraine defense minister Fedorov amid military leadership feud and protests
ContinuationUkrainian protesters rally in Kyiv against Zelenskyys dismissal of defense minister Fedorov
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is considering dismissing Oleksandr Syrskyi, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, amid growing protests and internal conflicts within the military leadership. The Financial Times reported on Saturday that Zelenskyy is gathering military commanders this weekend to hear their assessments of the battlefield situation and interview candidates for the post of commander-in-chief.
The potential dismissal comes after Zelenskyy dismissed Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov earlier this week, sparking widespread protests in Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities. Protesters have been demanding the dismissal of Syrskyi and the reinstatement of Fedorov, who was credited with contributing to Ukraine's recent military successes.
According to sources close to Zelenskyy, the president is prepared to dismiss Syrskyi if he can find a commander capable of ensuring a smooth transfer of power while maintaining a strong defense along the 1,200 km front line. The Financial Times also reported that Zelenskyy is still trying to persuade former Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko to take up the post of Ukraine's ambassador to the United States.
The dismissal of Fedorov has led to a political crisis in Ukraine, with influential military figures and opinion leaders expressing their anger and concern that the decision could give Russia an advantage in the war. The conflict between Fedorov and Syrskyi had become so bitter that they stopped communicating with each other, according to Zelenskyy.
Protests have continued for a second day, with thousands of people gathering in Kyiv to denounce Fedorov's dismissal and call for his reinstatement. The demonstrations have also spread to other cities, with protesters chanting slogans against Syrskyi and calling for his dismissal.
Zelenskyy has been holding meetings with corps commanders defending the most active sectors of the front, discussing the battlefield situation and potential candidates for the post of commander-in-chief. The president is reportedly looking for a candidate who can ensure a smooth transition and maintain a strong defense against Russian forces.
The internal conflicts within the Ukrainian military leadership have raised concerns about the country's ability to maintain its defense efforts. The dismissal of Fedorov and the potential dismissal of Syrskyi have highlighted the tensions and divisions within the government and military leadership.
In addition to the internal conflicts, there have been reports of Russian preparations for a major offensive in the fall, with plans to mobilize over 500,000 people. This has added to the urgency of the situation and the need for strong and effective military leadership in Ukraine.
The situation remains fluid, with Zelenskyy continuing to consult with military commanders and other officials to address the ongoing crisis and ensure the country's defense capabilities.
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