Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has removed Valerii Zaluzhnyi from his position as commander-in-chief of the army and appointed Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi to lead the armed forces. Zelenskyy and Zaluzhnyi coordinated their statements on social media, indicating a show of unity despite reports of conflict between them. The US expressed willingness to work with Syrskyi, who is described as an experienced and successful commander. Zaluzhnyi, who oversaw the defense of Kyiv and the recapture of occupied territory, has been rumored to have political ambitions but denies them.
Ukraine's army chief, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, emphasizes the need for Ukraine to adapt to a reduction in Western military aid and focus on technology to combat Russia. In an exclusive essay for CNN, Zaluzhnyi addresses the challenge of mass mobilization and the importance of unmanned aerial vehicles and electronic warfare capabilities. He acknowledges the setbacks in Ukraine's counteroffensive and the need to overcome Russian military advantages, while emphasizing the significance of technology in modern warfare strategy.
Military expert Mykhailo Zhyrokhov stated that false rumors about the resignation of Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, may significantly impact army morale. While the President's Office denied the rumors, Zhyrokhov suggested that the controversy could lead to demoralization within the military. Reports of Zaluzhnyi's resignation and potential replacements have caused uncertainty, with the Ministry of Defense refuting the claims. The situation highlights the potential impact of political turmoil on the country's military readiness during a time of war.
A wiretap was discovered in premises intended for Ukraine's military commander-in-chief, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, raising questions about a reported rift between him and President Volodymyr Zelensky. The device, found in a non-working state, was located in a room that could be used by Zaluzhnyi. Speculation suggests the wiretap could be the work of Russians or an internal attempt to gather intelligence or compromise the commander-in-chief. The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has launched a criminal investigation, and Ukrainian media also reported the discovery of a wiretap in Zaluzhnyi's assistant's office. The incident follows the death of another assistant to Zaluzhnyi in November, which raised suspicions of sabotage.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is facing a public dispute with General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, the commander-in-chief of Ukraine's armed forces. The president's office sees signs of Zaluzhnyi transitioning into a political actor, which they consider inappropriate during an ongoing war. While an imminent dismissal of the general is unlikely, tensions between Zelensky and Zaluzhnyi could impact Ukraine's operational capabilities and Western support. The falling out is seen by some as a reflection of Zelensky's political ambitions and his team's efforts to eliminate potential challengers. Zaluzhnyi, who has gained popularity for his leadership during the conflict with Russia, is known for his commitment to Ukraine's territorial liberation and operational independence. The dispute comes at a challenging time for Ukraine as it seeks to secure Western support and navigate the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Valerii Zaluzhnyi, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, had a final telephone conversation with General Mark Milley, the current head of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the United States, before Milley steps down. They discussed the situation at the front and the progress of defensive and offensive operations. Zaluzhnyi emphasized the need for air defense equipment, artillery, and ammunition to strengthen the Ukrainian Armed Forces in their fight against Russia.
