Thread by @Mylovanov

FT writes about the new dynamics in the conflict between President Zelensky and Commander in Chief Zaluzhny

Yesterday something strange, almost bizarre happened. The Ukrainian social media went up in arms on the rumors that Zelensky dismissed Zaluzhny 1/

Everyone cited their anonymous sources in the government and military. Ukrainian media went on record saying the commander is fired.

Then an hour later the office of the president officially denied that Zaluzhny is fired. So media and opinion leaders apologized and reversed 2/

Anyway, FT writes that Zelenskyy is preparing to replace Zaluzhny nonetheless. He has served as commander-in-chief of the armed forces since 2021. This would be the biggest shake-up of Ukraine's military leadership since the full-scale invasion began. 3/

FT says that Zelenskyy offered Zaluzhny a new role as a defense adviser, but Zaluzhny refused. Sources indicate Zelenskyy made clear Zaluzhny would be removed regardless. A decision was made to dismiss him, but it may be delayed due to the uproar the move has caused. 4/

For many months, there have been reports of mounting tensions between Zelenskyy and Zaluzhny, coming to a head after Ukraine's stalled counteroffensive last November. Zelenskyy's office rebuked the general for terming the war a "stalemate." 5/

Zaluzhny enjoys widespread popularity and trust among both Ukraine's military and general population. His dismissal could negatively impact army morale at a critical juncture of the war. It could also unsettle Ukraine's Western partners. 6/

However, I have personally heard very mixed opinions about how widespread this support is 7/

FT writes that potential replacements include ground forces commander Oleksandr Syrsky and military intelligence head Kyrylo Budanov, both of whom are closer to Zelenskyy. Zaluzhny is credited with key Ukrainian successes against Russia. I have heard similar rumors too 8/

Source : 9Xft.com/content/aa9aac…