Ukraine Dismisses Senior Cybersecurity Officials Over Embezzlement Allegations
The Ukrainian government has removed two high-ranking cybersecurity officials following accusations of misusing state funds. Yurii Shchyhol, head of Ukraine’s State Special Communications Service (SSSCIP), and his deputy Victor Zhora were dismissed, as announced by senior cabinet official Taras Melnychuk in a Telegram post.
Key Details of the Dismissals
- Officials Involved:
- Yurii Shchyhol: SSSCIP Chairman
- Victor Zhora: Deputy Chairman & Chief Digital Transformation Officer
- Reason: Ongoing investigation by Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) into alleged embezzlement of over $62 million during software procurement.
- Interim Appointment: Dmytro Makovskyi named acting head of SSSCIP.
Reactions and Statements
- SSSCIP’s Official Response: The agency confirmed the dismissals, citing NABU’s probe.
- Victor Zhora’s Comment: Told TechCrunch, “I will defend my name and reputation in court.”
- Yurii Shchyhol: Unavailable for immediate comment.
International Implications
Ukraine’s cybersecurity partnership with the U.S. remains under scrutiny:
- CISA’s Stance: The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) declined to comment on the allegations but affirmed its continued support for Ukraine. Spokesperson Scott McConnell stated, “Our partnership remains strong.”
- Prior Collaborations:
- Zhora and CISA Director Jen Easterly signed a memorandum of understanding post-Russia’s invasion.
- Zhora recently keynoted at Cyberwarcon and appeared with Easterly at Black Hat 2023.
Broader Context
This development highlights Ukraine’s efforts to combat corruption while maintaining critical cybersecurity defenses during wartime. The dismissals come amid heightened cyber threats from Russia, as reported earlier.
Updated with CISA’s response. Reporting by Lorenzo Franceschi-Bicchierai.
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