Russian defector Kuzminov killed in Spain
Russian pilot Maxim Kuzminov, who in the summer of 2023 landed his Mi-8 helicopter in Ukrainian territory, has died in Spain, Ukrainian Defense Intelligence spokesman Andriy Yusov said on Feb. 19.
Yusov did not provide details of the pilot's death.
At the same time, NV’s sister publication Ukrainska Pravda cites intelligence sources to report that Kuzminov was killed in Spain. A torched car was found near the site of his death, presumably used by the assailants to flee the scene.
“He decided to move to Spain instead of staying here,” the source said.
“What we know is that he invited his ex-girlfriend over and was later found shot dead.”
Earlier, Russian Telegram channels and media outlets had published reports about Kuzminov's murder in Spain, citing Spanish media reports. Publications claimed he sustained between five to 12 gunshot wounds. Authorities also discovered a burned-out car that "disappeared from the scene after the murder." According to neighbors, the area where the body was found is home to many foreigners, including Ukrainians and Russians.
On Aug. 23, 2023, Kuzminov landed a Russian Mi-8 helicopter in Poltava Oblast, surrendering the aircraft to Ukraine. Official sources later confirmed this was the conclusion of a six-months-long operation by Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence.
In addition to the aircraft itself, the transfer included spare parts for Su-27 and Su-30 fighter jets.
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