Zelensky sacks Ukraine's commander-in-chief Valerii Zaluzhnyi

President Volodymyr Zelensky said the high command needed to be "renewed" and that Gen Zaluzhnyi could "remain on the team".

"Starting today, a new management team will take over the leadership of the Armed Forces of Ukraine," he said on Thursday.

Gen Zaluzhnyi is a popular general trusted by Ukrainian soldiers and the public and has been something of a national hero.

His recent approval ratings have been higher than those of Mr Zelensky.

Analysis: General's sacking won't instantly solve Ukraine's war woes
The president said he and Gen Zaluzhnyi had a "frank conversation" about the changes needed in the army, and that he thanked the general for defending Ukraine from Russia.

The new army chief, Gen Syrskyi, has experience in both defensive and offensive warfare, Mr. Zelensky said.