Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
World
Daniel Boffey Chief reporter

Zelenskyy forces out Ukrainian spy chief who led daring raids against Russia

Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, with Vasyl Malyuk
Volodymyr Zelenskyy with Vasyl Malyuk in June 2025. The president wants the spy chief to head asymmetrical operations that will inflict maximm damage on Russian forces. Photograph: Anadolu/Getty Images

The spy chief who led Ukraine’s most audacious behind-the-lines operations in its war with Russia has been forced to resign by Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Vasyl Malyuk, who was awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine last year, reportedly fought to stay in post as head of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) but relented on Monday at a meeting with the president.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.