Ukraine boosts SBU force size and creates new elite combat unit
Ukraine’s parliament on July 16 voted to increase the size of the country’s Security Service (SBU) and its elite combat unit, according to MP Iryna Herashchenko of the European Solidarity party.
Lawmakers backed draft bill No. 13353 with 311 votes across all factions.
The bill grants SBU military personnel the right to use weapons and combat equipment when carrying out defense missions. It also restructures the agency’s counterterrorism unit into a newly established “A Special Operations Center,” which will conduct tactical and combat missions.
The total peacetime personnel of the SBU will rise from 27,000 to 37,000. During wartime or under special conditions, the number will increase from 31,000 to 41,000. The A Center alone will include at least 10,000 personnel, Herashchenko said.
A public opinion poll published in October 2024 showed that 64% of Ukrainians trust the SBU. The Armed Forces of Ukraine remain the most trusted institution, with over 90% approval. The State Emergency Service holds 83% trust, while volunteer organizations enjoy support from 80% of respondents.
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