Ex-Ukrainian aide shot dead in Madrid

A former Ukrainian politician, Andriy Portnov, was shot dead by unidentified gunmen outside the American School of Madrid, according to Spain's Interior Ministry. The shooting occurred around 9:15 a.m. as Portnov, a former senior aide to pro-Russian ex-President Viktor Yanukovych, was returning to his vehicle after dropping off his child. Emergency services arrived quickly and attempted to revive him, but he was pronounced dead at the scene due to multiple gunshot wounds.

The American School confirmed that police were interviewing parents and believed Portnov was a father of children enrolled there, although formal identification was still pending. Portnov, 51, had left Ukraine for Russia in 2014 amid investigations for treason and embezzlement, and he faced European Union sanctions that were later lifted. His political career was marked by controversy, including allegations of corruption and manipulation of Ukraine's judiciary for personal gain.

Since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Spain has witnessed several high-profile crimes linked to the ongoing conflict, reflecting the significant expatriate communities from both countries. Spanish authorities are now investigating the assassination, exploring motives that could range from political retribution to organized crime. The incident has raised alarms regarding the safety of political exiles and the potential implications of international conflicts spilling over into Europe.

As the investigation unfolds, authorities are working to determine the circumstances surrounding Portnov's death and any connections to broader geopolitical tensions. The case highlights the risks faced by political figures in exile and the potential for violence related to international disputes. The situation remains fluid, with law enforcement agencies actively pursuing leads to uncover the identity of the assailants and the motives behind this brazen attack in a suburban area of Madrid.