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Friday, January 9, 2026
B1 Intermediate ⚡ Cached
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Ukraine Appoints New Acting Head of Security Service

President Volodymyr Zelensky has made a change in Ukraine's Security Service (SBU). Major General Yevhenii Khmara is now the acting head. He takes over from Vasyl Malyuk, who led the agency since 2022. This change happened during important meetings in Paris. Allies are meeting to discuss security for Ukraine. They want to make sure Ukraine is safe after a possible ceasefire. These events show Ukraine is focused on its security and future.

President Zelensky said the change will help Ukraine fight Russian forces. Malyuk will still lead special operations. This seems like a plan to make the SBU stronger. Some people think Khmara's new role might cause problems. This is because he might work closely with Kyrylo Budanov. Budanov is now Zelensky's chief of staff.

At the same time, leaders are meeting in Paris. French President Emmanuel Macron is hosting the meeting. Ukraine and over thirty allied countries are there. They want to agree on strong security guarantees for Ukraine. This is important for peace later. US mediators are helping with these talks. This shows the US is involved in Ukraine's future. Russia is still attacking Ukraine. They want to control the Donbas region.

There are also reports about a peace plan. Former US President Donald Trump is said to be behind it. Most of the plan is reportedly agreed. However, about ten percent is still difficult. This part is about land. Russia does not want a ceasefire. They are also attacking Ukraine's energy systems. This makes peace less likely soon.

The SBU has been very important in the war. They manage security and fight spies. They also do secret missions. For example, they attacked Russian air bases with drones. This leadership change might bring questions. However, the goal is to improve fighting. Ukraine is also working with other countries. This shows Ukraine is determined to face Russia's aggression. The next few weeks will show what these changes mean.

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