The Government of Ukraine Announces the Departure of Top Military Commander
The government of Ukraine has informed the White House of President Volodymyr Zelensky’s decision to fire his top military commander, Gen. Valery Zaluzhny. This personnel shake-up, if implemented, would have significant implications for the ongoing war in Ukraine. White House officials have neither supported nor objected to this decision, acknowledging it as the president’s sovereign choice.
A Sensitive Decision
Zelensky has not yet issued a formal decree to announce Zaluzhny’s dismissal, leaving the timing uncertain. The fact that Washington received advance notice, which has not been previously reported, highlights the influential role the United States plays as Ukraine’s foremost military and political supporter. This early warning also provided the White House an opportunity to influence Zelensky’s decision, which they ultimately chose not to pursue.
Potential Consequences
The departure of Gen. Zaluzhny, a highly popular figure in Ukrainian society, has the potential to impact troop morale and shake the confidence of Western donors as Ukraine’s military continues to face Russian advances. Zaluzhny and Zelensky have had disagreements over their differing strategies for overcoming battlefield setbacks as the war enters its third year.
Keeping the Balance of Power
While the United States has the potential to challenge Zelensky’s decision, such action could be seen as exerting undue influence. Experts argue that division and external interference at the top level of the Ukrainian government are not in the country’s best interest. Ensuring that the decision lies squarely with Zelensky and the potential consequences that follow should be paramount.
Ukraine’s Divided Perspectives
The Ukrainian president believes that a new military commander could rejuvenate Kyiv’s fortunes. However, finding a replacement for Zaluzhny presents a significant challenge. Two potential candidates with different strengths and weaknesses have surfaced. The head of military intelligence, Lt. Gen. Kyrylo Budanov, brings specialized knowledge in special forces and may signal a move toward unconventional tactics. Alternatively, Oleksandr Syrsky, the current ground forces commander, played a pivotal role in the defense of Kyiv and a successful counteroffensive in the Kharkiv region.
Moving Forward
It is important to note that whoever replaces Zaluzhny may not end the public disputes with the president. The impact of this leadership change on Ukraine’s military performance hinges on how the successor is viewed by the rest of the military, their effectiveness on the battlefield, and their ability to bridge the divide.
Isabelle Khurshudyan and David L. Stern in Kyiv contributed to this report.
