Klitschko thanked Syrskyi for defending Kyiv and addressed the new commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko thanked General Oleksandr Syrskyi for their collaboration during the defense of the capital and for his service in the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The mayor of Kyiv also addressed the new commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian army.
“I want to thank General Oleksandr Syrskyi. We got to know each other better in February 2022 during the defense of Kyiv. When we had to make difficult decisions quickly, when the enemy was at the gates of the capital, having almost surrounded it,” Klitschko wrote following reports of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine’s resignation.
“Few people can imagine how everything unfolded back then, what was done and how, to ensure the heart of the country was not lost. And the situation was on the brink…,” the mayor added.
Klitschko noted that for organizing Kyiv’s defense, Syrskyi was awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine, and the capital’s community conferred upon him the title of “Honorary Citizen of Kyiv.”
He also emphasized that Syrskyi had to take responsibility in a difficult situation.
“People can voice complaints and criticism, but only military personnel can do so to a combat general—those who understand the essence of the processes and the situation on the battlefield. Because Syrskyi carried out his duty without TV cameras, interviews, or social media posts. It was a difficult duty given the situation in which he had to work,” Klitschko wrote.
The mayor also thanked the general for his cooperation and professionalism.
At the same time, Klitschko wished the new Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Mykhailo Drapaty, success in overcoming the challenges of his new, great responsibility. He assured that the capital’s community would continue to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
Earlier, Syrskyi announced his resignation as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and summarized his work.
As a reminder, the new Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Mykhailo Drapatyi, addressed the Ukrainian people.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy appointed Major General Mykhailo Drapatyi, commander of the Joint Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, replacing Oleksandr Syrskyi.
