Syrskyi turns 60 — will the general retire?.

On July 26, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrskyi, will turn 60. But does this mean he will retire, and someone else will take his place?

Does the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces plan to retire in 2025?

Regarding whether the general plans to retire after turning 60, Syrskyi spoke in an interview with the American publication 'The Washington Post'.

Despite reaching retirement age, he does not plan to resign. He will celebrate his birthday on duty — along with soldiers at the front lines. According to the general, he is in excellent physical shape and can do 100 push-ups without stopping.

His associates say that Syrskyi hardly sleeps and is always working. His main motivation is the responsibility for the security of Ukrainians. He says he wants to do even more for Ukraine’s victory.

How Oleksandr Syrskyi became the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces

Oleksandr Syrskyi was born on July 26, 1965. He began his military career as a commander of a motorized rifle platoon in Poltava region. In 2019, he headed the Joint Forces Operation, later became the commander of the Ground Forces and the 'Khortytsia' group. Since February 8, 2025, he has been the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.

Syrskyi is known for his involvement in key operations: the exit from Debaltseve, the defense of Kyiv, the counteroffensive in Kharkiv, the battles for Bakhmut, and the Kursk operation. In 2022, he was awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine.