Zelenskiy Plans Leadership Change at Ukraine’s Security Service Amid War Reshuffle

Post by : Saif Nasser

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has announced plans to replace the head of the country’s main security agency, marking another important change in Ukraine’s leadership as the war with Russia continues.

On Monday, Zelenskiy said that Vasyl Maliuk, the head of the Security Service of Ukraine, known as the SBU, will be moved out of his current role. The decision is part of a broader government reshuffle that has already included the appointment of a new presidential chief of staff and is expected to bring changes to other key ministries.

Maliuk has led the SBU since February 2023, after first serving as acting head for several months. During his time in charge, the security service has played a major role in Ukraine’s fight against Russia. Under his leadership, the SBU carried out several bold and complex operations that drew international attention.

These included a long-range drone attack on Russian strategic bombers located deep inside Russian territory. The SBU has also said it oversaw an attack on a Russian submarine and carried out three strikes on the bridge linking Russia to Crimea, a structure that is vital for Russian military supplies. Crimea has been occupied by Russia since 2014.

Many analysts have praised Maliuk for strengthening the SBU and making it more effective. His leadership followed a difficult period for the agency. His predecessor, Ivan Bakanov, was removed in July 2022 after failing to eliminate Russian spies operating inside Ukraine.

Despite these achievements, Zelenskiy said he wants Maliuk to focus more directly on combat-related tasks. In a message posted on social media, the president said Ukraine needs more unconventional and unexpected operations against Russian forces and the Russian state.

“There must be more Ukrainian asymmetric operations against the occupier,” Zelenskiy said, adding that these actions should bring clearer and stronger results on the battlefield.

The planned change comes at a time when Zelenskiy is reshaping his top team. Just days earlier, he announced that military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov would become the new head of his office. He also said he plans to appoint new defence and energy ministers, two positions that are critical as Ukraine faces ongoing attacks and pressure on its power system.

The leadership changes suggest that Zelenskiy is looking for fresh momentum and sharper coordination as the war enters another challenging phase. By adjusting roles and responsibilities, he appears to be aiming for faster decisions, stronger security actions, and better results against Russian forces.

As the conflict continues with no clear end in sight, Ukraine’s leadership structure remains closely watched, both at home and abroad. These moves show that Kyiv is still adapting its strategy and command as it seeks to defend its territory and maintain support from its allies.