New Chief Takes Over Ukraine's SBU: Who Is Oleksandr Poklad and What's His Track Record?.

Oleksandr Poklad Takes the Helm

According to Espreso.tv: Oleksandr Poklad has been appointed as the acting head of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), following the nomination of Yevhen Khyra as Minister of Defense. A career SBU officer since 2015, Poklad has held various roles, including chief of the Counterintelligence Department. His professional path has stirred controversy due to allegations of pressure on anti-corruption agencies.

In 2023, Poklad served as deputy head of the SBU under Vasyl Malyuk. In July 2026, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy named him acting SBU chief. Poklad holds the rank of Major General in the SBU, holds a PhD in law, and has been awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine. He graduated from the Yaroslav Mudryi National Law Academy of Ukraine in 1996 and began practicing as a lawyer in 2006.

Career Milestones and Achievements

In 1999, Poklad founded the company 'Olteks.' He was appointed head of the SBU Counterintelligence Department in 2021, with the Ukrainian president officially confirming him in that role on November 30 of the same year. In 2025, Poklad received the Hero of Ukraine award and took part in an SBU-led special operation involving NABU employees. That same year, in July 2025, the Verkhovna Rada passed Law No. 12414.

Poklad's career and his appointment as acting SBU head are significant events within the context of Ukraine's security and anti-corruption efforts, sparking widespread public debate.

This leadership change reflects ongoing shifts in Ukraine's government structure, which could reshape strategies for tackling corruption and ensuring national security. Poklad's deep experience within the SBU and his past achievements lay the groundwork for potential reforms in this sector. At the same time, the allegations against him concerning pressure on anti-corruption bodies may trigger fresh political discussions and raise questions about the transparency of his work in this new role.