Zelenskyy addresses rumours that Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi and Security Service head Maliuk will be replaced

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that he is not currently considering replacing General Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Source: Zelenskyy at a briefing following a meeting with security advisers from partner countries

Quote: "Regarding the reset, all the processes [are underway] – the Cabinet of Ministers [the Ukrainian government – ed.], the law enforcement system, the security system, the Ministry of Defence, and extending from the Ministry of Defence, in addition to production facilities (Ukroboronprom and others), of course, the Armed Forces of Ukraine as well.

We are talking about steps taken one after another, not about being ready to replace the commander-in-chief today. At present, it is not anticipated that the commander-in-chief will be replaced."

Details: Nevertheless, when asked to comment on an appeal by service members calling for Vasyl Maliuk to remain in post as head of the Security Service of Ukraine, Zelenskyy responded: "I respect everyone. I will make the changes that I have decided to make."

Background:

• Earlier at the same briefing, Zelenskyy announced upcoming changes in the leadership of several ministries and a reset of the entire law enforcement system and the armed forces, noting that if Russia derails diplomatic efforts, Ukraine will need renewed strength to continue fighting.
• According to Zelenskyy, "the concept of the reshuffle will be implemented in January".
• He added: "Next, after the defence sector has been reset, I will move on to the Armed Forces of Ukraine. But in order to get there, I have to be sure that everything else has been reset and is functioning properly."

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