By José Carlos Palma *
Ukrainian Digital Transformation Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has expanded his control over the country’s cybersecurity. On July 13, 2023, a decree was signed that gave Fedorov the authority to oversee the State Service of Special Communications and Information Protection (SSSCIP). This agency is responsible for protecting Ukraine’s critical infrastructure from cyberattacks.
The decree also gave Fedorov the authority to appoint the head of the SSSCIP. This is a significant change, as the head of the agency was previously appointed by the president.
Fedorov’s move to expand his control over cybersecurity is seen as a response to the increasing threat of cyberattacks from Russia. Since the start of the war in Ukraine, Russia has launched a number of cyberattacks against Ukrainian government websites, banks, and critical infrastructure.
The decree gives Fedorov the authority to take a number of steps to improve Ukraine’s cybersecurity. These include:
- Investing in new cybersecurity technologies
- Improving training for cybersecurity personnel
- Developing a more comprehensive cybersecurity strategy
Fedorov has said that he is committed to making Ukraine a “cyber-resilient country.” He believes that the decree will help Ukraine to better defend itself against cyberattacks.
The decree has been met with mixed reactions. Some have praised Fedorov for taking steps to improve Ukraine’s cybersecurity. Others have expressed concerns about the concentration of power in the hands of one individual.
Only time will tell whether Fedorov’s decree will be effective in improving Ukraine’s cybersecurity. However, it is clear that he is taking the threat of cyberattacks seriously.
* Expert in international relations, such as foreign policy, international trade, domestic security, international security, developing nations, domestic security, intelligence, IT Consultant, world history, political consultant, and military analysis.