- Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky is reportedly considering replacing commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrskyi amidst public protests and internal military tensions.
- Demonstrators in Kyiv have called for Syrskyi's dismissal and the reinstatement of Mykhailo Fedorov, the popular former defence minister, who was sacked following a disagreement with senior military leaders.
- Fedorov, credited with modernising Ukraine's army and improving battlefield momentum, reportedly had significant differences with Syrskyi, though Syrskyi publicly downplayed these as professional disagreements.
- Zelensky confirmed a rift between the defence ministry and senior military figures last week, acknowledging his role in the lack of unity.
- Joint Forces chief Mykhailo Drapatyi is among 11 potential candidates being considered to replace Syrskyi, who has served as commander-in-chief since February 2024.
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