Ukrainian protesters demand removal of army chief Syrskyi and reinstatement of former defence minister Fedorov

Protesters gathered in Kyiv on Thursday demanding the removal of Army General Oleksandr Syrskyi from his post as commander of the Ukrainian Joint Forces. Demonstrators also called for the reinstatement of former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov, urging authorities to act before the end of the week, with a deadline set for Friday.

The rallies, organized by a coalition of veterans’ groups and opposition activists, cited concerns over recent military decisions and alleged shortcomings in defence coordination. Participants presented petitions and slogans referencing Syrskyi’s leadership during recent operations, while highlighting Fedorov’s prior experience in modernising Ukraine’s armed forces. Police reported a peaceful assembly, with no arrests or clashes recorded.

Government officials have not yet responded to the demands, and the situation remains under close observation as the Friday deadline approaches. The outcome may influence ongoing discussions about Ukraine’s defence strategy and the composition of its senior military leadership.