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Thousands of demonstrators gathered in central Kyiv on Sunday evening for the fourth consecutive day of protests over recent changes to Ukraine's military leadership.
According to Interfax-Ukraine, more than 5,000 people assembled at Franko Square near the Office of the President. Although attendance was lower than on Friday and Saturday, when more than 10,000 people reportedly participated, Sunday's rally again highlighted widespread concern over the future direction of Ukraine's armed forces.
The demonstrations began after President Zelenskyy announced the replacement of Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, a move that has triggered several days of protests and intensified public debate over the command structure of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
The latest rally attracted a broad spectrum of participants, including young people, military veterans, active-duty service members, older citizens, and families with children.
As in previous demonstrations, protesters demanded that the government reverse its decision regarding Fedorov's resignation. They also called for the dismissal of Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi and urged the Verkhovna Rada to resume its parliamentary work.
A new demand emerged during Sunday's protest, with demonstrators calling for Commander of the Joint Forces Mykhailo Drapatyi to be appointed as the next Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
The protest remained peaceful throughout the evening. Participants concluded the rally by observing a moment of silence in honor of fallen Ukrainian soldiers before organizers announced another demonstration would be held at Franko Square on Monday.
Veteran and protest organizer Dmytro Koziatynskyi warned that demonstrators could begin an indefinite protest campaign if the authorities fail to respond to their demands.
In his evening address, President Zelenskyy said he continues to hold consultations with Ukraine's senior military leadership, including Commander of the Joint Forces Mykhailo Drapatyi. He added that "key conversations" are taking place regarding upcoming decisions affecting the country's military leadership.
The protests follow demonstrations held across Ukraine on July 16, 17, and 18 after the announcement of changes in the Ministry of Defense.
On July 18, President Zelenskyy also met with corps commanders as part of broader consultations with military officials.
Separately, the Financial Times, citing a senior Ukrainian official, reported that President Zelenskyy is considering dismissing Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi and is seeking assessments from senior military commanders before making a final decision.
The report has fueled further speculation about possible changes within Ukraine's military leadership, although no official announcement regarding Syrskyi's future has been made. (ILKHA)
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