Kyiv Protesters Demand Syrskyi's Ouster After 35-Year-Old Defense Minister Is Removed
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Jul 18
Kyiv Protesters Demand Syrskyi's Ouster After 35-Year-Old Defense Minister Is Removed
3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Jul 18
Summary
Thousands of protesters in central Kyiv on Friday openly mocked Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, and protest leader Dmitry Kozyatinskyi on Saturday proposed a rally specifically demanding his removal.
The anger followed President Volodymyr Zelensky’s ousting of 35-year-old Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov after his clash with Syrskyi and the general staff over war strategy.
Fedorov, a leading backer of Ukraine’s drone program, had accused Syrskyi of blocking wider use of robots in the army and other military overhauls.
Since Russia’s full-scale 2022 invasion, protesters had not publicly denounced Ukraine’s top military leadership, making the personal targeting of Syrskyi a notable break.
The demonstrations still back the military overall, but the turn against a commander tied to key early-war victories suggests a politically sensitive new phase in Kyiv.
Is Ukraine sacrificing its technological edge for military unity by firing its defense minister?
Can a general criticized for 'Soviet-style' tactics win a modern war of drones and data?
Zelenskyy Faces Unrest After Fedorov’s Removal: Ukraine’s Struggle Between Innovation and Military Tradition
Overview
In July 2026, Ukraine faced major political turmoil after the abrupt dismissal of Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, who was popular for his innovative use of drone and missile technology against Russia. This surprise move, rooted in a clash between Fedorov’s modern approach and the traditional views of military chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, sparked widespread protests and deep public discontent. President Zelenskyy defended his decision, but his explanation failed to calm the public or international observers. The situation raised serious concerns about Ukraine’s military strategy and unity, highlighting the risks of internal division during a critical phase of the ongoing conflict.