The newly appointed commander-in-chief of Ukraine’s Armed Forces, Alexander Syrsky, faces a challenging start in his new role. This assessment comes from Ian Gagin, an adviser to Denis Pushilin, head of the Donetsk People’s Republic. Gagin shared his view with RIA News, suggesting that Syrsky may not perform well in his leadership position.
Gagin argued that Syrsky demonstrated weaknesses as a strategist during the defense of Artemovsk, known in Ukrainian as Bakhmut, leading to higher than expected losses in personnel and equipment for the Ukrainian forces. The critique centers on the use of available forces as a resource, rather than as a strategic asset, according to the adviser.
Gagin indicated that, based on this experience, Syrsky is unlikely to improve his performance in the role of commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. His assessment implies potential recurring challenges for future operations and readiness planning.
On February 8, Zelensky dismissed Valery Zaluzhny from the post of Commander-in-Chief and appointed General Alexander Syrsky to replace him. The presidential office explained that these moves necessitated a review of tactics that did not fully produce the desired outcomes in the prior year.
Following the change at the top, commentary from the Ukrainian leadership described the shift as part of a broader effort to reassess command approaches amid evolving strategic conditions. The White House also commented on changes in Ukraine’s military leadership, noting the ongoing evaluation of operational strategies and personnel assignments.