Vasiliy Malyuk, head of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), confirmed the information about his resignation.
In his statement, he noted: “I remain within the SBU structure to implement world-class asymmetric operations that will continue to inflict significant damage on the enemy. I am confident that a strong and modern intelligence service is the foundation of our state's security. These changes being made by the President of Ukraine in the defense sector are aimed precisely at this, and I express my gratitude to him,” Malyuk stated on his Telegram channel.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had previously met with Malyuk, expressing his gratitude for his “combat work” and suggesting that he focus on it within the SBU. “I instructed him to make the direction of asymmetric operations one of the strongest in the world. We have the necessary resources and support,” Zelensky added.
Shortly after this, the President's advisor on communications, Dmytro Litvin, announced that Yevgeny Khmara, who headed the special operations center “A,” would temporarily take over as acting head of the SBU.
Zelensky also mentioned on his Telegram channel that he discussed with Khmara “the possibilities for the systematic development of the SBU.”
The decree appointing Khmara to the new position has already been published on the official website of the President of Ukraine.
The publication “RBK-Ukraine” reported on January 3 that Volodymyr Zelensky was considering the possibility of dismissing Vasiliy Malyuk and appointing him to another position. Sources claimed that this decision could raise many questions, as Malyuk “transformed the SBU into an effective intelligence service that conducts unique operations and strengthens Ukraine's position in negotiations.”
According to “Ukrainska Pravda,” Malyuk initially refused to submit a resignation letter, which displeased Zelensky. It was reported that under pressure, he ultimately decided that a conflict with the president could harm the state.
