Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced significant changes within the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), emphasizing the need for a thorough cleansing of the agency.
On February 16, Zelensky received reports from acting SBU head Yevhen Khmara and his deputy Oleksandr Poklad. During this meeting, he stated, “Oleksandr Poklad will also focus on purging the Security Service of those who serve interests other than Ukraine’s. Strong actions are necessary for a fully capable Security Service. I expect results,” he remarked.
This announcement follows a series of personnel changes within the government and security agencies. Recently, Zelensky conducted extensive reshuffles, including the leadership of four regional military administrations.
As part of this so-called “great reset,” the president also replaced the head of his office, appointing former military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov to the position. Sources suggest that this decision may be linked to strategic considerations, including the potential preparation of a successor.
Additionally, President Zelensky has decided to change the leadership of the SBU. Following the resignation of Vasyl Maliuk, Khmara was appointed as the acting head of the agency.
Moreover, the president is exploring a new operational model for the Foreign Intelligence Service, a move associated with his recent discussions with former Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba.
In another notable appointment, Zelensky has named former Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov as the new Minister of Defense of Ukraine.
President Zelensky has initiated a comprehensive restructuring of the Security Service of Ukraine, aiming to eliminate elements serving foreign interests. This follows a broader trend of personnel changes within the Ukrainian government and security apparatus.