Ukraine's Government Appoints Former SBU Chief Khmara as Acting Defense Minister.

Yevhenii Khmara Takes the Helm

According to Espreso.tv: Yevhenii Khmara has been appointed as the acting Minister of Defense of Ukraine, following his departure from the post of head of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU). The Cabinet of Ministers issued the corresponding directive on July 17, 2026, and Khmara assumed his new duties on July 20, 2026.

Prior to this appointment, Khmara served as Deputy Minister of Defense. A Major General in the SBU, he has been a member of the agency's special operations unit 'Alpha' since 2011. During Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Khmara played an active role in the defense and liberation of the Kyiv region, and in 2022 he led the operation to liberate Snake Island.

Military Record and Decorations

Khmara was promoted to Brigadier General in 2023 and to Major General in 2024. He is a full recipient of the Order of Bohdan Khmelnytsky (1st, 2nd, and 3rd classes) and has been awarded the Order for Courage (3rd class). In April 2023, he was appointed head of the SBU's Center for Special Operations and Counterterrorism, and from August 2025 he led the SBU's 'A' Special Operations Center. On January 5, 2026, he became the acting head of the SBU.

This appointment marks a significant step in Ukraine's military leadership structure amid the ongoing conflict. Khmara's background in special operations and counterterrorism is expected to bring a tactical edge to the country's defense strategy.

Khmara's elevation to the role of acting defense minister underscores the continued evolution of Ukraine's military command in response to the war. His extensive experience in managing high-stakes operations and counterterrorism efforts could prove critical in strengthening national defense. Given his track record, observers anticipate a focus on military reform and bolstering Ukraine's defensive capabilities.