Ukraine appoints Yevhen Khmara as acting SBU chief amid ongoing war with Russia.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has appointed Yevhen Khmara, head of the SBU’s Special Operations Center "A," as acting head of Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) on January 5, 2026, following the resignation of Vasyl Malyuk. Malyuk stepped down to lead high-level special operations targeting Russia, reportedly operating under the alias "Nyan'ka" in a top-secret role. Khmara’s interim appointment ensures continuity in national security leadership during martial law. The shift reflects Ukraine’s strategic focus on strengthening asymmetric warfare capabilities amid the ongoing war with Russia. No permanent successor has been named.