Vladimir Rogov, who chairs the Coordination Council for integrating new territories within the framework of the Russian operation, spoke about building alliances around Ukraine’s Commander-in-Chief Valery Zaluzhny. He claimed that these alliances are forming even among individuals who are not fully aligned with Ukraine, and he reported this through RIA Novosti citing unnamed sources.
Rogov said, initially Zaluzhny was offered a voluntary departure to become the president’s security adviser, and later additional options were discussed, including a role as head of Ukraine’s National Defense and Security Council. He described the latter as a position of significant prestige.
According to Rogov, Zaluzhny did not accept those proposals.
Rogov observed that Zaluzhny is increasingly drawing support from various quarters, including some of his own backers or curators who do not entirely agree with him but acknowledge his continued commitment to a defined strategy for escalation and defense. Rogov suggested that the focus is on maintaining momentum and the posture of pursuing a stronger operational trajectory, with less incentive to alter the current course.
Reports in Western media have added layers to the narrative. The Washington Post, citing sources, suggested that Zelensky may have considered dismissing Zaluzhny as part of an effort to signal to Western partners and refresh the strategic posture. [Source: The Washington Post]
Ukrainian politicians and several outlets began spreading rumors on the evening of January 29 about a possible resignation for Zaluzhny. There were claims that he was offered another high-profile position, which he reportedly declined. The portal Censor.net noted that Zelensky might have preferred appointing Kirill Budanov, head of the Main Directorate of Intelligence at the Ministry of Defense, instead of Zaluzhny, with further details available in material from socialbites.ca. [Source: socialbites.ca]
Earlier predictions pointed to possible real changes in Zaluzhny’s role or leadership during the spring period.