Media report a conflict between Drapatyi and Syrskyi over the former’s desire to become Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine

Former Commander of the Ukrainian Ground Forces Mykhailo Drapeaty had a conflict with Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, reportedly due to Drapeaty’s ambitions to replace him.

This was reported by RBC-Ukraine, citing sources.

“Shortly after his appointment, Drapeaty said something like: ‘Just wait — I’ll be the commander-in-chief soon,’ in front of colleagues. Word of this got back to Syrskyi. How could he view him after that? The two also allegedly had different views on military strategy — particularly regarding when to hold positions, counterattack, or retreat. Drapeaty’s resignation letter is seen by some as a public act of opposition to Syrskyi and an attempt to shift blame for recent tragedies, including issues involving Territorial Recruitment Centers (TCCs). The source noted that Drapeaty may have hoped President Zelensky would reject the resignation, effectively giving him a vote of confidence”, – one source told reporters.

The article also states that Syrskyi did not allow Drapeaty to dismiss personnel or appoint his own people.

As a reminder, Drapeaty submitted his resignation after a deadly incident involving soldiers at a training ground, and at the same time publicly criticized the internal state of the military. Following the controversy, he was reappointed as Commander of the Joint Forces.