Zelensky’s uncertain stance: Will General Zaluzhny be dismissed or remain Ukraine's military chief?

According to Ukrainska Pravda, the direction of the discussion was expected; Zelensky has consistently criticised the commander in chief, accusing him of political ambitions. Concurrently, a public opinion poll signalled increasing approval for ending the war, even with potential compromises with Russia. This poll also underlined eroding support for the president and Zaluzhny's rising approval ratings - including for his non-existent political party.

The General Staff anticipated decisions on Zaluzhny's removal and Chief of the General Staff General Serhii Szaptała would be published on February 2. The previous day, The Washington Post, sourcing internally, noted that the Ukrainian authorities had informed the White House about Zelensky's decision to alter the current Commander of the Armed Forces position.

The aforementioned American newspaper reported the USA did not back the Ukrainian president's intentions. However, they did not voice opposition either, conceding that Zelensky has the prerogative to make individual choices.

In a first time public admission, Zelensky confirmed that he's contemplating Zaluzhny's dismissal during an interview with Italian broadcaster RAI, aired during the night of February 4 to 5. He hinted at a big reshuffle within the nation's power structures.

Ukrainska Pravda maintains that Zelensky is contemplating two potential successors for Zaluzhny's role. Of the two, the 58-year-old General Syrski emerges as the prominent one, given his responsibility for large front sectors and a career inception that dates back to Soviet times. The portal described him as a commander for whom the accomplishment of tasks takes precedence over the sacrificed human lives.

Zelensky has also been considering another candidate, General Kyrylo Budanov, the head of military intelligence.