Volodymyr Zelenskyy has removed Vasyl Malyuk from his position as head of Ukraine’s security service, the SBU, in what is being described as the most significant reshuffle of the country’s security and defence agencies since the start of the 2022 Russian invasion.
Shifting Security Leadership
Malyuk, who oversaw operations targeting Russian agents within Ukraine and sabotage efforts within Russia, will move to a new role within the SBU. He was involved in the “Spiderweb” attacks in June 2025, which targeted strategic bombers at four airfields inside Russia. Zelenskyy announced last week that Kyrylo Budanov, the head of military intelligence, would become his new chief of staff, filling a vacancy created by Andriy Yermak’s resignation following a corruption scandal.
The changes extend beyond the SBU and military intelligence. Zelenskyy has also appointed a new head of the military intelligence service and nominated candidates for the positions of energy and defence ministers. He also named Chrystia Freeland, the former Canadian finance minister, as an advisor on economic development.
Diplomacy and Internal Resilience
These personnel changes occur as Zelenskyy intensifies diplomatic efforts to secure security guarantees from Western allies. He has stated that the war is likely to continue if Moscow does not alter its objectives. Zelenskyy emphasized the need to strengthen Ukraine’s internal resilience, stating it is vital for both potential recovery through diplomacy and continued defence if negotiations stall.
Malyuk, 42, was popular within military circles and, despite a controversial past incident involving a photo with an arrested officer accused of collaborating with Russia, oversaw a period of increased effectiveness for the SBU. His removal prompted a rare public display of support from military figures, including Mykhailo Drapatyi, commander of the military’s joint forces.
Yevhen Khmara will serve as interim SBU head, having previously commanded an elite special force unit within the agency. A parliamentary vote will be required to confirm Malyuk’s permanent successor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted these changes in Ukraine’s security leadership?
The changes are part of the most significant shake-up of Ukraine’s security and defence agencies since the start of the 2022 Russian invasion, occurring alongside intensified diplomatic efforts and following a corruption scandal involving a previous chief of staff.
What was Vasyl Malyuk’s role within the SBU?
Malyuk oversaw the hunt for Russian agents and collaborators within Ukraine, as well as sabotage and assassination operations in Russia. He was also involved in the “Spiderweb” attacks on Russian airfields in June 2025.
What is the significance of Chrystia Freeland’s appointment?
The appointment of the former Canadian finance minister as an advisor on economic development signals Ukraine’s focus on securing economic support and planning for potential recovery, even as the war continues.
How might these leadership changes impact Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to defend itself and negotiate a resolution to the conflict?