Reshuffle at Ukraine’s Intelligence Agencies Draws Criticism

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 4 min read 100% complete by Andrew E. KramerJanuary 7, 2026 at 01:48 PM

AI Summary

long article 4 min

Ukraine's President Zelensky has initiated a major reshuffle of the country's intelligence agencies, replacing the directors of the S.B.U. (domestic intelligence) and H.U.R. (military intelligence) in January 2026. Zelensky states the restructuring is necessary to prepare for a potentially prolonged conflict with Russia. The former S.B.U. director, Gen. Vasily Maliuk, has been replaced by Gen. Yevhen Khmara, though Parliament must approve the move. Critics, including a former S.B.U. director, argue the shake-up risks disrupting ongoing operations and may be politically motivated, potentially sidelining popular generals before future elections mandated by a draft settlement agreement. The S.B.U. and H.U.R. are crucial in the war effort and counter-espionage, cooperating closely with U.S. intelligence agencies.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Trump administration 40% Yevhen Khmara 50% Kyrylo Budanov 60% Valentyn Nalyvaichenko 60% H.U.R. 60% C.I.A. 60% Volodymyr Zelensky ×370% Vasily Maliuk ×370% Russia ×280% S.B.U. ×480% Ukraine ×590%

Keywords

intelligence agencies 100% reshuffle 90% ukraine 80% political risks 70% war 60% military intelligence 60% special operations 50% leadership 50% espionage 40%