Ukraine's Cabinet Suspends State Forestry Agency Head Viktor Smal

Suspension of the Head of Ukraine's State Forestry Resources Agency

According to Главком: Viktor Smal, the head of Ukraine's State Agency of Forest Resources (Derzhlisagentstvo), has been suspended from his duties following a decision by the Cabinet of Ministers to initiate disciplinary proceedings. The move was formalized in three government orders-No. 637-r, No. 638-r, and No. 639-r-issued on July 1, 2026, and published on the Cabinet's official portal. The suspension comes amid reported concerns over the agency's operations, which manages the country's forest resources-a key component of Ukraine's environmental policy.

Disciplinary Investigation Underway

The disciplinary case has been assigned to the Civil Service High Corps Commission, which is tasked with completing its investigation by August 8, 2026. During Smal's suspension, First Deputy Head Volodymyr Buchko will serve as acting head of the agency for the entire period. Buchko will oversee the State Forestry Agency while the commission examines possible violations. This action by the Cabinet underscores the seriousness of the situation at the agency and may affect its work, as the investigation aims to clarify the circumstances and guide future leadership decisions.