Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently fired his top general in the biggest military shakeup since Russia invaded, sending a political message that Kyiv is searching for a new start and fresh leadership as Ukraine faces pressure to overcome major setbacks in the war.  

Vice Adm. Robert Murrett (Ret.), professor of practice of public administration and international affairs, tells The Hill that the war has entered a new phase and predicts an “operational tactical reset” but no major battlefield movements. “I don’t expect to see any dramatic shifts in the activity by the Ukrainian army,” he says, “but the leadership remains strong. I think we’ll see evidence of that very clearly in the months ahead.” 

In the Newsweek article, “Former CIA Analyst Issues Warning to Zelensky,” Murrett says that the shift in Ukrainian senior leadership “reflects a logical transition following two years of a country on a wartime footing.”

“This may be time for new approaches and positioning for adopting a long-term posture which would increase pressure on Russia, and demonstrate resolution and stamina to other international actors as well as the people of Ukraine,” he says.

Murrett was also quoted in the Daily Express article, “Russia forced into humiliating retreat as Ukraine 'wins battle of the Black Sea'.”