Who is Oleg Lugovsky? Zelenskyy's New Acting Chief of Foreign Intelligence.

Oleg Lugovsky's Appointment

According to Novyny.live: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has named Oleg Lugovsky as the acting head of the country's Foreign Intelligence Service (SZR). The decree formalizing this appointment was signed on February 4, 2025.

Lugovsky has been with the Foreign Intelligence Service since 2024, where he established a reputation as a seasoned professional. In 2025, he was appointed First Deputy Head of the SZR. A key aspect of his recent work includes participation in negotiations with Russia, which took place in Istanbul in May 2025. This appointment comes at a critical time for Ukraine's security apparatus.

Shifts in Ukraine's Intelligence Leadership

This move follows other significant changes in Ukraine's intelligence community. Notably, on January 2, 2025, Oleh Ivashchenko was appointed head of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense (GUR), replacing Kyrylo Budanov. These leadership changes point to an active restructuring of Ukraine's intelligence bodies, which could influence the nation's strategic direction.

The appointment of Oleg Lugovsky to this key intelligence role underscores the importance of stability and competence amid the ongoing geopolitical situation.

Given his experience and involvement in high-stakes negotiations, Lugovsky's leadership may positively impact Ukraine's foreign policy efforts. The broader reshuffling, including Ivashchenko's appointment, suggests potential strategic realignments in national security, likely reflecting new challenges and priorities for the state moving forward.