FT: Zelenskyy weighs replacing Ukraine's military chief and courts former PM for US ambassador post

The Financial Times has reported that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is considering dismissing Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, amid protests if he can find a suitable candidate to replace him.

Source: Financial Times, citing sources in Zelenskyy's circle

Details: A senior official in the President's Office said Zelenskyy is gathering military commanders this weekend to hear their assessments of the battlefield situation and interview candidates for the post of commander-in-chief of Ukraine's Armed Forces.

The source said Zelenskyy is prepared to dismiss Syrskyi if he could find a commander capable of ensuring a smooth transfer of power while maintaining a strong defence along the 1,200 km front line.

The Financial Times also reported, citing people close to the president, that Zelenskyy is still trying to persuade former prime minister Yuliia Svyrydenko to take up the post of Ukraine's ambassador to the United States.

Quote from the FT: "His top choice remains former prime minister Yuliia Svyrydenko, who was dismissed in this week's cabinet shuffle, said one aide, although she turned down the offer this week. People close to the president said that he is still trying to convince her to take on the role, which comes at a crucial moment in the war and in the relationship with the Trump administration."

Subscribe on Patreon to back our journalism long-term.