Volodymyr Zelensky’s alleged feud with his army chief Valery Zaluzhny is “bad news for Ukraine” and could have an impact on Kyiv’s war effort, experts have warned.
The Ukrainian President was forced to deny that he fired Zaluzhny on Monday following months of speculation that the two men are at odds with one another.
Various outlets such as Ukrainska Pravda, Ukrinform, and The Kyiv Independent reported that Zaluzhny was summoned by Zelensky.
Zelensky’s spokesperson Sergii Nykyforov later denied the suggestion that the army chief had been relieved of his duties: “Definitely not. The president has not dismissed the commander-in-chief.”
The Ukrainian defense ministry also said on Telegram: “Dear journalists, we immediately answer everyone: No, this is not true.”
READ MORE: Ukraine reeling after corrupt officials steal $40m meant for weapons
Galeotti believes Zelensky may have even planned to replace Zaluzhny “but backed away from the idea when the level of dismay became apparent.”
He added that there are no obvious replacements for Zaluzhny should he go, and that the “politically destabilizing” feud could hurt Ukraine’s war effort.
Fighting between Ukraine and Russia has continued.
While tensions in Kyiv appear to be high, the troops on the ground have secured a minor win after shooting down a Russian Su-34 fighter jet.
The jet was shot down over the eastern Luhansk region.
The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said on Facebook: “Estimated losses of the enemy last day were: 960 Russian occupants, 10 tanks, 29 combat armored vehicles, 31 artillery systems, three air defense vehicles, one Su-34 aircraft in the Luhansk region, 35 operational and tactical drones, 42 cars and five special equipment units.”
