Ukrainian Spiderweb operation architect’s removal heads to parliament without support, but 226 votes are also unlikely

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The Ukrainian Parliament Rada Committee on National Security, Defense, and Intelligence has not supported the proposal to dismiss Security Service Chief Vasyl Maliuk, says Ukrainian deputy Solomiia Bobrovska from the “Holos” party. Now, the decision will be sent directly to the parliament for approval, Suspilne reports.

Maliuk led the Spiderweb operation in 2025, which targeted 41 Russian military aircraft across four airfields in Russia. The drones for the mission were hidden in modular wooden cabins placed inside Russian trucks, with their roofs remotely opened for launch near the bases. The drivers who transported them did not know what kind of “goods” they carried. 

MP Yaroslav Zhelezniak emphasizes that the committee’s decision does not block the possibility of bringing the matter to the parliamentary floor. To approve the resolution, 226 votes are needed. However, according to Zhelezniak, the possibility of reaching that threshold at this time is very low.

Maliuk given new role in asymmetric operations

On 5 January, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy proposed Maliuk to lead the SBU’s asymmetric operations direction, noting that these changes are part of a broader modernization of the agency.

Maliuk confirmed his resignation as SBU chief but indicated his readiness to take on the new strategic role, overseeing key unconventional operations.

Meanwhile, Ukrainska Pravda writes that Maliuk’s decision may be linked to an attempt by the President’s Office to clean itself up from several anti-corruption scandals. 

Acting leadership of the SBU: General Khmara takes command

On the same day, the president signed a decree appointing Major General Yevhen Khmara as the acting head of the SBU.

Previously, Khmara headed the Special Operations Center “A.” His appointment highlights the emphasis on improving operational efficiency and special capabilities within the service during a period of strategic changes.

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