The head of Ukraine’s Security Service, Vasyl Malyuk, has announced his resignation as part of a significant reshuffle led by President Volodymyr Zelensky. This decision was confirmed on Monday, following discussions between Malyuk and Zelensky regarding the future leadership of the intelligence agency. Malyuk, who has served as the SBU chief since 2023, plans to remain within the agency to focus on enhancing Ukraine’s covert operations.
In a statement on the social media platform X, Zelensky expressed gratitude to Malyuk for his service, emphasizing the need for intensified “world-class asymmetric special operations” against Russia. Such operations may include unconventional tactics like cyberattacks and targeted raids. Malyuk, 42, has been at the helm during pivotal operations, including notable assassinations and daring missions within Russian territory.
Leadership Changes in Ukraine’s Security Apparatus
As part of this restructuring, Zelensky appointed Yevgeny Khmara as the interim head of the SBU. Khmara currently leads the Centre for Special Operations “A” of the Ukrainian secret service and is expected to continue the agency’s focus on high-impact operations against Russian forces. Zelensky articulated a clear vision for Ukraine’s security strategy moving forward, stating, “I tasked Vasyl Malyuk with making our asymmetric operations the strongest in the world.”
The reshuffle extends beyond the SBU, reflecting a broader strategy to fortify Ukraine’s security and defense capabilities after nearly four years of conflict following Russia’s invasion in February 2022. In addition to Khmara, Zelensky announced several other key appointments on social media.
Among these changes, Chrystia Freeland, the former Deputy Prime Minister of Canada, has been appointed as an adviser for economic development. Freeland, who has Ukrainian heritage, is expected to leverage her experience and connections to bolster Ukraine’s economic strategies.
Furthermore, Kyrylo Budanov, previously the head of military intelligence, will now lead Zelensky’s presidential office. In a notable shift, Mykhailo Fedorov, the current Deputy Head of Government and Minister for Digital Transformation, will assume the defense portfolio from Denys Shmyhal. Shmyhal, who has also served as Prime Minister, will transition to the role of Minister of Energy.
These appointments are intended to enhance the effectiveness of Ukraine’s defense and intelligence operations, reinforcing the leadership team at a critical juncture in the ongoing conflict. The changes will require approval from the Ukrainian parliament before taking effect.
Overall, these developments signal a dynamic shift in Ukraine’s approach to security and governance, as the nation continues to navigate the challenges posed by the ongoing war with Russia.
