Zelensky’s big mistake.

Win the war, lose the politics.

I am loathe to criticize President Zelensky. For fifty months he has led his nation in the face of what appeared to be overwhelming odds to the gates of victory. The awesome task of leading a nation in war should not be underestimated. There are millions of people with complicated problems who all think they should have consideration. There are politicians, generals, academics, engineers, economists and worst of all investors who all play a part in creating the paths already trodden. The lessons were learned; corruption was reduced and punished. The military was tempered in battle, and political experts learned a new trade. The military war is being won, the politics continue to be a struggle. Even at this late date everything can collapse on a single vital mistake.

Great leaders be they politicians, CEOs or generals all understand the value of having at least one man close by their sides who will tell them when they are wrong. When Alistair McAlpine the former head of British Steel, wrote The New Machiavelli he referred to such colleagues as ‘Loyal Lieutenants.’ These employees are absolutely essential to men and women of power. They will frustrate and annoy, but they will always be honest. Only poor leaders surround themselves with ‘yes men’ and good news.

That said, nothing is causing more anger among Ukrainians than the dismissal of Mykhailo Fedorov as defence minister of Ukraine. Rumours abound at the highest levels of the Ukraine government that President Zelensky’s government reshuffle was perpetrated for the sole purpose of removing Fedarov. There was no discussion in parliament and no vote when Fedarov was officially removed ‘Because he and Syrsky have different visions of war’ (RBC Ukraine).

No one in Ukraine believes this.