Last week, the Ukrainian government terminated the employment of two high-ranking cybersecurity officials, Yurii Shchyhol, the head of Ukraine’s State Special Communications Service (SSSCIP), and his deputy Victor Zhora, who had been a prominent figure in international cybersecurity conferences. This was disclosed by Ukraine’s senior cabinet official, Taras Melnychuk on Telegram.
The High Anti-Corruption Court in Ukraine has issued a press release confirming the detention of Victor Zhora as a preventive measure. Before now, Zhora expressed his intention to defend his name and reputation in court.
The court order states that Zhora’s detention would extend until January 22, 2024, with an imposed bail of 10,000,584 Ukrainian hryvnia, equivalent or approximately $275,000.
Zhora, in a tweet on his last day at SSSCIP on Friday, thanked supporters for their backing of the service’s efforts in cyberspace. He expressed hope that his successor would continue to support initiatives and international cooperation, anticipating a return with new responsibilities in the future.