Zelensky reviews 11 candidates to replace Ukraine’s commander
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is currently evaluating 11 potential candidates to replace Oleksandr Syrsky as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces. The search follows the recent dismissal of Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, which has caused significant political instability and public protests.
Why it matters
Leadership changes in the Ukrainian military during an ongoing conflict could significantly impact the country's defense strategy and political stability.
Zelensky reviews 11 candidates to replace Ukraine’s commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrsky, Bloomberg reports July 20, 2026, 9:15 pm Source: Bloomberg Volodymyr Zelensky is reviewing a list of 11 candidates to replace Oleksandr Syrsky as commander-in-chief of Ukraine’s armed forces, Bloomberg sources reported .
Mykhailo Drapatyi, commander of Ukraine’s Joint Forces, is considered the leading contender, Bloomberg reports. The Ukrainian news outlet Ukrainska Pravda and the Financial Times also name Drapatyi among the candidates.
Others on the list include Oleh Apostol, commander of the Airborne Assault Forces; and Volodymyr Horbatiuk, deputy chief of the General Staff. Ukrainska Pravda also lists Andriy Biletsky, commander of the 3rd Army Corps; and Denys Prokopenko, commander of Ukraine’s 1st National Guard Corps, ‘Azov.’
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