Personnel changes in the Security Service of Ukraine
On January 5, 2023, the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree on the dismissal of the head of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) Vasyl Malyuk. Yevheniy Khmara was appointed to this position and will temporarily perform the duties of the head of the SBU. These personnel changes are necessitated by the need to maintain the effectiveness of the Service's work in the conditions of the ongoing full-scale war in Ukraine.
Vasyl Malyuk held the position of head of the SBU since July 18, 2022. During this time, the Security Service of Ukraine demonstrated significant activity in combating Russian aggression. As of January 1, 2026, the SBU has destroyed 2,194 Russian tanks, indicating a high level of professionalism and effectiveness of the units' work.
The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine must approve the appointment of the new head of the SBU, for which it is necessary to obtain 226 votes from deputies.
Experience of the new head of the SBU
Yevheniy Khmara has military service experience in the 'A' Special Operations Center of the SBU since 2011. Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude to Yevheniy Khmara and all special forces warriors for their significant combat work throughout the years of war.
“This personnel reshuffle in the SBU is crucial for further ensuring national security and stability in the country.” - Volodymyr Zelensky
The personnel changes in the Security Service of Ukraine emphasize the importance of adapting state institutions to the conditions of war ongoing in the country. The appointment of a new head of the SBU, who has experience in special operations, may indicate an intention to increase the operational efficiency of the service in response to current security challenges. The approval of the new head of the SBU by the Verkhovna Rada also reflects political support for national efforts in the fight against the aggressor and the protection of Ukraine's territorial integrity.