Pro-Russian Lawyer's Murder in Madrid: A Shocking Assassination

Pro-Russian Ukrainian Lawyer Gunned Down in Madrid: A Political Hit or Organized Crime? Madrid, Spain – In a shocking development, Andrii Portnov, a prominent pro-Russian Ukrainian lawyer, was fatally shot in Madrid on May 22, 2025. The incident occurred as Portnov was taking his children to a prestigious private school, the Colegio Americano de Madrid. Spanish authorities are currently investigating whether the assassination was politically motivated or linked to organized crime. Portnov's history is complex and controversial. He served as an advisor to former Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych, known for his pro-Russian stance. Following Yanukovych's ouster in 2014, Portnov faced corruption investigations in Ukraine and was accused of involvement in the annexation of Crimea. He eventually fled to Russia, where he obtained citizenship and amassed significant wealth, owning properties valued in millions of euros in both Russia and Ukraine. "The police are investigating whether this was a political crime or a settling of scores linked to organized crime," stated a source close to the investigation, who wished to remain anonymous. The fact that Portnov was living in a luxury mansion outside of Madrid and was targeted while with his children adds a layer of complexity to the case. The killing of Portnov is not an isolated incident. Spain has seen a rise in deaths of Russian nationals in recent years. In 2022, a Russian magnate was found dead along with his family on the Costa Brava. In 2024, a Russian defector pilot was murdered in Alicante. The ongoing investigation into Portnov's death will undoubtedly shed more light on the potential motives and connections to these other cases. The international community is watching closely as Spanish authorities work to uncover the truth behind Portnov's assassination. The incident highlights the ongoing geopolitical tensions and the potential spillover effects of conflict into seemingly unrelated areas.