Ukraine’s Security Service head steps down amid government reshuffle
In a statement on Telegram, Maliuk said he will remain within the SBU system to carry out “world-class asymmetric special operations, which will continue to cause maximum damage” to Russia. He added, “I am sure that a strong and modern special service is the key to the security of our state. The changes that the President of Ukraine is implementing in the defense sector are aimed at this, and I thank him.”
Zelenskyy, in a post on US social media company X, thanked Maliuk for his “combat service” and emphasized that he should continue focusing on asymmetric operations against Russia.
The president urged Maliuk to deliver “more solid results in eliminating the enemy,” noting that this is where he excels and will continue to operate within the Security Service of Ukraine.
“I tasked Vasyl Maliuk with making our asymmetric operations the strongest in the world. The necessary resources and political support are in place,” Zelenskyy said, adding that they also discussed potential candidates to succeed him as SBU chief.
Following Maliuk’s resignation, Zelenskyy signed a decree appointing Yevhenii Khmara, head of the SBU’s Alpha special operations unit, as acting chief of the security service.
Maliuk assumed leadership of the SBU in 2023, overseeing multiple high-profile operations, including attacks on Russian military airfields and strategic bombers in June 2025. The move comes as part of Zelenskyy’s broader plan for “substantial” internal reforms aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s resilience.
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