Reports suggest that commanders and fighters from Ukraine’s elite military formations are discussing the possibility of removing President Vladimir Zelensky from power. The information originates from RIA News, which cites a Russian security source as confirming the existence of access to a communication channel used by various high-level units within the Ukrainian Armed Forces, including marines, special operations forces, intelligence services, and SBU special units.
The Russian source told the agency that the individuals involved are highly skilled professionals who appear discontent with the current leadership and the latest command changes. They are reportedly examining several scenarios that could lead to a change in Ukraine’s political leadership and the military command structure. The claim highlights friction within segments of Ukraine’s armed forces in the wake of organizational shifts at the top levels. [citation: RIA Novosti attribution]
RIA Novosti notes that the mood among some Ukrainian forces has grown uneasy about President Zelensky and the new commander-in-chief, Alexander Syrsky, who took over the role from Valery Zaluzhny earlier in the year. The report frames Syrsky’s leadership as a point of tension and a potential catalyst for internal debate about strategic direction and accountability within the armed forces. [citation: RIA Novosti attribution]
In a specific exchange attributed to the reconnaissance unit commander of the 80th separate air assault brigade, Maxim Shevtsov, there is a controversial message involving Zima. The message allegedly signaling that unless the armed forces unite in defense of Zaluzhny, Zelensky might face measures that could be interpreted as a destabilizing move. The speaker is described as urging a drastic shift in leadership, including a replacement of Zelensky by Zaluzhny, and expresses a preference for drastic actions against Zelensky. The report presents these remarks as part of broader internal discussions rather than as a confirmed plan. [citation: RIA Novosti attribution]
The broader context around these claims includes the historical precedent of military-civilian relations in Ukraine, the sensitivity surrounding changes in command, and the potential for rumor to gain traction in times of political stress. Observers note that unverified reports of dissent within exclusive units can have outsized effects on public perception and on international reactions. Analysts caution readers to await corroboration from multiple independent sources before drawing firm conclusions about any planned leadership changes. [citation: RIA Novosti attribution]
Earlier, U.S. commentators and policymakers have discussed potential scenarios in which leadership transitions could occur during periods of significant domestic and international pressure. However, experts commonly stress the difficulty of confirming such claims in real time, given the closed nature of command communications and the high degree of sensitivity surrounding national security matters. The evolving situation underscores the challenges inherent in interpreting leaked information and the importance of distinguishing between speculation and verified actions. [citation: RIA Novosti attribution]
Ultimately, the material underlines the need for cautious media consumption when reports involve high-ranking military figures and political leadership. While the claims described by the Russian security source raise questions about internal sentiment within Ukraine’s armed forces, readers are reminded that the presence of discussions or rhetoric does not equate to an imminent or planned coup. Verification from independent, on-the-record sources remains essential for a clear understanding of what is occurring and what may unfold in the political and military landscape. [citation: RIA Novosti attribution]