A Russian Defector's Killing Raises Spectre of Hit Squads
Russian military defector killed in Spain, raising concerns about espionage networks in Europe.
- Bilawal Riaz
- 1 min read
A Russian military defector who handed over a helicopter and secret documents to Ukraine last summer was killed in Spain, shining a spotlight on Russia’s spy networks in Europe. Maksim Kuzminov was assassinated in a parking garage in Villajoyosa, with shell casings from 9 mm Makarov rounds left at the scene. The killing, believed to be a professional hit, raised concerns about continued Russian espionage despite efforts to dismantle such networks after the Ukraine invasion. Kuzminov’s defection was orchestrated by a Ukrainian intelligence unit, a success in recruiting Russian defectors. The Kremlin’s desire for Kuzminov’s death was no secret, evident in a state news program. While direct Kremlin involvement is unproven, Russia’s aggressive intelligence operations were noted. The assassins remain unidentified, but suspicions point towards Russian involvement.