Zelensky Appoints New Leadership in Ukraine's Security Service

On March 25, 2023, President Volodymyr Zelensky appointed Serhii Hunkovskyi as the head of the Counterintelligence Department and Viktor Zaiets as the head of the Military Counterintelligence Department of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU). These appointments were confirmed through decrees published on the Presidential Office's website. The positions had been vacant since January 5, when Zelensky dismissed Andrii Tupikov and Oleksandr Dubrovin amid a broader government reshuffle following a significant corruption scandal that emerged last year.

Kyiv IndependentZelensky appoints heads of SSU counterintelligence and military counterintelligence departments

The dismissals in January were part of a strategic move to enhance the effectiveness of Ukraine's security operations, particularly in light of ongoing military conflicts with Russia. Following the dismissals, Yevhen Khmara was appointed as the acting head of the SBU, succeeding Vasyl Maliuk, who had stepped down but remained involved in operations against Russian forces. The SBU has been instrumental in conducting counterintelligence operations and sabotage missions targeting Russian military assets throughout the ongoing war.

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The timing of these appointments coincides with SSU Day, a national observance in Ukraine that commemorates the establishment of the Security Service of Ukraine on March 25, 1992. This day highlights the importance of the SBU in national security and counterintelligence efforts. The new leadership is expected to continue the agency's critical role in safeguarding Ukraine against external threats, particularly from Russia.

Zelensky appoints heads of SSU counterintelligence and military counterintelligence departments

In the official decrees, President Zelensky emphasized the importance of strong leadership within the SBU to address the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict. The appointments are seen as a necessary step to reinforce the agency's capabilities in counterintelligence and military operations.

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While the appointments have been largely accepted, some critics argue that the ongoing reshuffling within the SBU reflects deeper issues of governance and accountability within Ukraine's security apparatus. The previous corruption scandal has raised concerns about the effectiveness and transparency of the agency, prompting calls for more comprehensive reforms.

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• “To appoint Serhii Hunkovsky as head of the Counterintelligence Department of the Security Service of Ukraine,” — Presidential Decree No. 269/2026

Zelensky appoints heads of SSU counterintelligence and military counterintelligence departments

The new leadership under Hunkovskyi and Zaiets will likely face immediate challenges as they work to enhance the SBU's operational effectiveness against Russian aggression. Observers will be monitoring their performance closely, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict and the need for accountability within Ukraine's security services.

Kyiv Independent