A significant event has occurred in the leadership of Ukraine's Security Service: President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed SBU chief Vasyl Maliuk. This decision has sparked considerable public response, as Maliuk's three-year tenure saw the SBU transform into one of the world's most effective special services in terms of strategic weakening of the enemy.
Maliuk headed the service during the most difficult period of the war. Under his leadership, the SBU eliminated hundreds of traitors and agents and conducted numerous powerful special operations, including attacks on the Kerch Bridge, destruction of Russian ships, a submarine, and Russian strategic aviation using drones. These operations sent a signal to the enemy and dramatically changed the course of combat and informational efforts.
However, some systemic problems remained within the service, such as corruption, "covering" for certain businesses, and the need for customs and tax authority reforms. Some experts view the leadership shake-up as part of a broader transformation of Ukraine's security structures, in response to the demand for a systemic reboot.
The new acting SBU head is Yevhen Khmara, known for his work in the service's combat units and for an unblemished reputation. His appointment offers hope for maintaining the agency's operational effectiveness and possibly strengthening internal reforms.
Experts discuss different reasons for Maliuk's removal: influence from Western partners, internal power struggles, and efforts to tackle political-economic schemes. Despite being dismissed, Maliuk is expected to continue his work on special operations, maintaining influence to strengthen Ukraine on both the frontline and the home front.
Military leaders and fighters have openly supported Maliuk, praising his team's achievements. A general reformatting of Ukraine's security and military institutions is underway, which will define national defense in coming years. The SBU's effective experience and methods are likely to shape further transformation of Ukraine's security sector.
The story of Maliuk underscores that, even during wartime, the ability of special services to adapt and reform in response to new challenges—balancing external threats with internal modernization—remains crucial.
