Ukraine's parliament approves Maliuk's dismissal as Security Service head

The resolution passed with 235 votes in favor.

Servant of the People faction leader David Arakhamia urged lawmakers to support the dismissal "out of respect" for Maliuk and his own resignation statement.

Golos MP Roman Kostenko criticized the removal of what he called an "effective SBU head." European Solidarity's Artur Herasymov proposed a recess, noting that materials for the dismissal resolution were missing from the parliament website.

Maliuk did not attend parliament for the traditional report before dismissal.

The day before, the parliamentary committee on national security and defense did not support Maliuk's dismissal. But this morning lawmakers held a repeat vote and secured the necessary support. European Solidarity MP Iryna Gerashchenko said no arguments had been presented regarding the need for the dismissal or Maliuk's ineffectiveness.

Background

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced a major reshuffle of government, law enforcement, Defense Ministry and Armed Forces bodies in case Russia refuses to end the war diplomatically and Ukraine must continue defending itself with "fresh forces."

When it became known that Maliuk would also be replaced, several military officers spoke out against the move. During a meeting with reporters, Zelenskyy was asked about the criticism and replied: "I respect everyone, I will carry out the rotations I have decided on."

Maliuk later confirmed he was leaving the post but said he would remain in the SBU system to carry out "world-class asymmetric special operations" that would continue inflicting maximum damage on the enemy. His future position is unknown.

Yevhenii Khmara, former head of the SBU's Center for Special Operations "A," was appointed acting head of the Security Service.