Zelenskyy speaks with ex-defence minister Fedorov and Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi: "Decisions on army will be worked out"

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said he has spoken with former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov and Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi. He promised that "decisions regarding the army will be worked out".

Source: Zelenskyy in his evening address; Fedorov on X (Twitter)

Quote from Zelenskyy: "Yesterday and today have been filled with consultations. Of course, I hear what people are saying. Today, I spoke at length with Mykhailo Fedorov. I also spoke with Oleksandr Syrskyi today. Decisions regarding the army will be worked out."

Details: Fedorov has also confirmed that "dialogue" is happening.

Quote from Fedorov: "Change is inevitable. You thanked me for Mriia and Diia [the state-developed apps for education and public services respectively – ed.]. In return, I thank you for giving me hope. I've never felt a responsibility this great – not even while serving in government. Thank you to our veterans and service members for holding the line and upholding our honour.

The dialogue is happening. I believe we will succeed."

Previously: The Financial Times has reported that amid the recent protests, Zelenskyy is considering dismissing Syrskyi if a suitable replacement can be found.

Background:

• On 16 July, protests in support of Fedorov took place near the President's Office in Kyiv and in a number of Ukrainian cities. The protesters called on the authorities to reinstate Fedorov in the new government and not to hand the defence minister position over to Ihor Klymenko.
• Commenting on the upcoming changes at the Defence Ministry, Zelenskyy acknowledged that Fedorov and Syrskyi had been unable to work together effectively and that problems on the battlefield, in military brigades and with mobilisation remain unresolved.
• Zelenskyy said it was right that Ukrainian citizens are able to take part in peaceful demonstrations and express their views even during wartime, adding that he had "not yet made a final decision" on the issue they had raised.
• Later that evening, however, Zelenskyy said he would propose the appointment of Yevhen Khmara as defence minister to the Verkhovna Rada (parliament). Khmara, who is currently the acting head of the Security Service of Ukraine, will now carry out the duties of Ukraine's defence minister on the president's instruction.
• On 18 July, protests against Fedorov's dismissal and demanding Syrskyi's removal resumed in Kyiv.