**Former Ukrainian Official Shot Dead in Madrid: Investigation Unfolds**
Andriy Portnov, a high-ranking official from ex-President Viktor Yanukovych’s administration, was shot dead in Madrid on May 21. The news outlet Ukrainska Pravda reported that Portnov visited Ukraine just days before the fatal shooting, citing unnamed sources.
According to three people familiar with Portnov’s movements – including law enforcement officials and his inner circle – he met with top law enforcement officials during his visit to Ukraine on May 17-18. This revelation has sparked renewed scrutiny of Portnov’s activities in Ukraine, particularly his alleged ties to the judiciary and law enforcement.
**A Career Marked by Controversy**
As Yanukovych’s deputy chief of staff responsible for the judiciary and head of his administration’s legal department, Portnov wielded significant influence over the judiciary. Even after Yanukovych was ousted during the 2014 EuroMaidan Revolution, Portnov reportedly retained considerable sway over the judicial system.
Portnov fled Ukraine following the revolution, first relocating to Russia and later to Austria. He returned to Ukraine in 2019 but left again in 2022 due to Russia’s full-scale invasion. The U.S. sanctioned him in 2021 for suspected corruption, accusing him of using his influence over Ukraine’s judicial system to secure favorable rulings and amass wealth.
**A History of Litigation**
Portnov was known as one of the most litigious figures among Ukraine’s ex-officials. In 2024, a Kyiv court ruled in his favor in a defamation suit against several outlets, including the Kyiv Independent, over references to him as “pro-Russian.” This decision was seen by many as an attempt to silence criticism and intimidate journalists.
**An Investigation Unfolds**
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) investigated Portnov over alleged involvement in the Russian occupation of Crimea. A treason case against him was opened in March 2018, but it was later closed.
As the investigation into his death unfolds, many are left wondering about the circumstances surrounding Portnov’s killing and the potential implications for Ukraine’s judicial system.
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