Zelenskyy replaces head of Ukraine's army amid calls from protesters to do so
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has replaced the head of the army, Mykhailo Drapatyi, following public pressure and protests. This move is seen as a response to demands for military modernization and the removal of leadership associated with Soviet-style command structures.
Why it matters
The leadership change reflects the delicate balance between maintaining military stability and responding to public demands during wartime.
It was the second major reversal Zelenskyy has made under street pressure, after protests last summer forced him to undo a law weakening Ukraine's anti-corruption watchdogs.
Zelenskyy appointed Mykhailo Drapatyi as the new army chief, according to a statement on social media.
"Our shared wish is one — victory over the enemy and conditions at the front and in pressure on Russia that would force Russia toward peace," Zelenskyy said.
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