In a move representing the biggest change in military leadership since the outbreak of war with Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy appointed General Mykhailo Drapaty as the new army chief, following days of street protests.

The new Ukrainian general commanded the ground forces from 2024 to 2025, and is seen as a new-generation general. Drapaty, 43, replaced Oleksandr Syrskyi, 60.

According to Reuters news agency, the cabinet reshuffle carried out by Zelenskyy last week, and the dismissal of reform-minded, tech-savvy Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, 35, after only six months in office, raised concerns among analysts about a possible loss of the momentum Ukraine had recently gained on the battlefield.

Ukraine seeks to seize the initiative in the war by launching powerful strikes against Russia's energy sector—which is the main source of budget revenues—and logistical operations.

According to the agency, it remains unclear whether the changes announced by Zelenskyy will be enough to contain the protests and end tensions on the Ukrainian streets, as Kyiv continues its war with Russia amid growing military and political challenges.

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