KIEV, Ukraine – In a surprising turn of events, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Monday his intention to dismiss Gen. Valery Zaluzhny, his top commander. The decision comes amid growing public exhaustion with the ongoing war and a slowdown in international aid, according to a senior Ukrainian official familiar with the situation.
However, the potential dismissal of the popular general has sparked swift backlash within the military ranks and uncertainty in the West. Critics fear that Zelensky’s decision could backfire, potentially playing into Moscow’s hands by creating instability that Russia could exploit.
Reports indicate that Zelensky’s decision to oust Zaluzhny was not well-communicated, leading to discontent among soldiers and civilians who respected the general. The lack of transparency around the reasons for his expected dismissal has also raised concerns about the impact on morale among troops on the front lines.
The conversation between Zelensky and Zaluzhny shed light on the challenges Ukraine faces on the battlefield. The incoming commander will inherit a war with a better-armed and larger force, making a quick improvement in Ukraine’s position unlikely. The need for more soldiers, weapons, ammunition, and equipment remains critical.
Furthermore, the strained relationship between Zelensky and Zaluzhny has been evident for some time, as the two men reportedly lacked trust in each other. This dynamic has potentially contributed to the dismissal of the general, as Zelensky seeks a more loyal replacement.
The anticipated decree formalizing Zaluzhny’s removal is expected to be issued this week, although it had yet to be released as of Thursday. The situation has sparked speculation about potential candidates to replace Zaluzhny, with Col. Gen. Oleksandr Syrsky and Lt. Gen. Kyrylo Budanov emerging as top contenders.
Critics of Syrsky argue that he is unpopular among the Ukrainian military ranks, known for issuing unreasonable orders and removing popular commanders in favor of those more loyal to him. Meanwhile, Budanov, with a background in special forces, lacks experience as an army commander, raising doubts about his suitability for the role.
The move to dismiss Zaluzhny has also raised concerns about the unity and stability of Ukraine’s leadership, with some comparing the move to the political infighting that characterized Kyiv before Russia’s invasion. As the country braces for a change in its military leadership, the decision’s potential ramifications remain a subject of concern and scrutiny across Ukraine.