The deceased individual found shot dead in Spain is believed to be the Russian helicopter pilot who defected to Ukraine last year, Maxim Kuzminov.
In August, Kuzminov flew a helicopter into Ukrainian territory and surrendered himself to authorities. While Spanish police have not officially confirmed his identity, Ukrainian intelligence confirmed his death on Monday, stating that he had relocated to Spain and was found dead after inviting his ex-spouse to join him.
Spanish authorities suspect that the victim may have been living under a false identity, as documentation matching Kuzminov's nationality but bearing a different name was found alongside his body near Alicante.
Reportedly, Kuzminov contacted Ukrainian secret services last year to inform them of his defection plans. He executed "Operation Synytsia" by flying his Mi-8 helicopter over the border and landing it in eastern Ukraine, where two other individuals on board were shot dead by unknown assailants.
During a news conference in September, Kuzminov stated that he defected due to his opposition to Russia's war on Ukraine and cited promises of financial compensation, new documents, and protection for his family from the Ukrainian authorities.
However, Ukrainian officials have expressed regret over Kuzminov's decision to relocate to Spain, asserting that he would have been protected in Ukraine.
Russian authorities have not officially commented on the matter, though Sergei Naryshkin, director of Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service, referred to Kuzminov as a "traitor and criminal" and insinuated his impending demise.
The circumstances surrounding Kuzminov's death continue to be investigated, with Spanish authorities cooperating with Ukrainian intelligence to determine the motive and identity of the perpetrators.
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