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Zelensky Removes Ukraine Top General After Protests Over Defence Shake-Up

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1 month ago

July 21, 2026

Joseph Imo

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has removed the country’s top general, Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, after days of public protests over changes to the military leadership.

The decision marks a major reversal for Zelensky, who had only days earlier backed Gen. Syrskyi and dismissed Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov.

Thousands of people joined demonstrations calling on the president to reverse course and restore Mr. Fedorov’s vision of a military strategy driven by drones and robotics.

As he championed a military overhaul that leaned into high-tech innovation, Mr. Fedorov, 35, emerged as a symbol of hope to many Ukrainians, particularly young people.

Mr. Fedorov’s dismissal after only six months in the job came as Ukraine appeared to have regained momentum in the war, largely through the increasingly effective use of long- and medium-range drones to strike targets in Russia and Crimea.

The leadership changes have fuelled concerns that the national unity which has helped Ukraine withstand nearly five years of war could come under increasing strain.

Faridah Abdulkadiri

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Joseph Imo

I am a seasoned journalist known for my incisive reporting and unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity. As a key member of the nop.ng team, I specialize in delivering balanced coverage of socio political developments and cultural affairs throughout Nigeria. Driven by a passion for uncovering the truth regardless of the complexity of the issue I have established myself as a trusted voice in Nigeria’s dynamic media landscape, continually striving to empower my audience with clear, contextually rich news.