Ukrainian Security Service Leadership Reshuffle Amid Ongoing Conflict

Thu Jan 08 2026 23:53:02 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

President Zelensky's latest reshuffle in Ukraine's Security Service sees the replacement of a prominent figure with Major-General Khmara, amidst ongoing tensions with Russia and questions regarding military strategies.

In a significant move, President Volodymyr Zelensky has replaced Vasyl Malyuk as head of Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) with Major-General Yevhenii Khmara. Malyuk, recognized for leading operations against Russian forces, faced criticism over his dismissal, particularly regarding the strategic direction of Ukraine's counter-offensive military efforts. The appointment of Khmara, noted for his tactical experience, raises hopes for more effective asymmetric operations against Russia, though uncertainties remain about his ability to oversee the entire SBU.

President Volodymyr Zelensky has reshuffled the leadership of Ukraine's Security Service (SBU), replacing influential Vasyl Malyuk and nominating Maj-Gen Yevhenii Khmara as the acting head.

The SBU is primarily responsible for internal security and counter-intelligence; since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, it has also been instrumental in conducting assassinations and sabotage within Russian territories.

Malyuk, who led the SBU since 2022, earned recognition for his operations against Russia and for purging elements seen as Russian double agents.

This reshuffle marks yet another significant leadership change by Zelensky since the conflict began.

Known widely in Ukraine, Malyuk coordinated the daring Spider Web attack in June, where over 100 Ukrainian drones targeted critical air bases in Russia. His departure, however, was met with criticism from various military commanders in Ukraine, as concerns grew over the potential short-sightedness of Zelensky's decision.

Although Malyuk has been removed from the chief position, he will continue to lead special operations against Russia, a decision reflecting Ukraine's need for more asymmetric operations on the battlefield.

While Khmara takes the helm amid concerns for the SBU's operational efficacy, opinions vary on whether he possesses the requisite broader experience needed for effective leadership. Some analysts argue his potential strengths could be overshadowed by internal conflicts tied to recent appointments, including that of former spy chief Kyrylo Budanov as Zelensky’s new chief of staff.

Despite mixed reviews, Khmara's involvement in successful operations positions him well, and his appointment will eventually require confirmation from the Ukrainian parliament. As Ukraine continues to combat Russian advances, the focus shifts toward leadership that can effectively neutralize military capabilities within Russian territory.

Observers note that recent leadership changes by Zelensky have raised questions about their long-term implications, especially as Ukraine grapples to reclaim ground against Russian forces.