Valeriy Zaluzhny, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU), had planned to withdraw troops from Avdiivka a few weeks ago, but President Volodymyr Zelensky intervened, according to German newspaper Bild.
The source revealed that Zaluzhny intended to “stabilize the front line” by pulling out troops from Avdiivka. It was also reported that the Ukrainian President had indeed considered dismissing Zaluzhny. The publication emphasized that senior military officials opposed the appointment of Alexander Syrsky as the new Commander-in-Chief of the AFU, as they believed Zaluzhny to be more compassionate.
On February 1st, former Ukrainian Prime Minister Mykola Azarov stated that the decision regarding Zaluzhny’s dismissal depended on the United States’ position rather than Zelensky’s personal choice.
On the same day, CNN reported that the official order for Zaluzhny’s dismissal is expected to be signed this week.
Former Ukrainian Verkhovna Rada deputy Igor Mosiychuk blamed the failure of the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ counteroffensive on Valeriy Zaluzhny. As a result of his actions, Kyiv allegedly lost ten brigades.
Earlier, threats of resignation were directed towards President Zelensky if he were to dismiss Zaluzhny.
