Andriy Portnov, a former senior aide to ex-Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych, was shot dead outside the American School of Madrid. The assassination occurred as he was dropping off his children, prompting an international investigation into potential political motivations.
Key Points
- Andriy Portnov Killed in Madrid: Former senior aide to ex-Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych, Andriy Portnov, was shot dead outside the American School of Madrid on May 21, 2025.
- Attack Occurred During School Drop-Off: Portnov was gunned down shortly after dropping off his children at the school, in a quiet suburb of Pozuelo de Alarcón.
- Multiple Shots Fired: Witnesses reported that several gunshots were heard, and Portnov was hit in both the head and torso. He died at the scene.
- Assailants Escaped on Foot: The attackers fled into a nearby wooded area. As of now, no arrests have been made.
- Political Background and Sanctions: Portnov was a controversial figure in Ukrainian politics and had been sanctioned by the U.S. in 2021 for alleged corruption and undermining democracy.
- Spanish Police Investigating Motive: Authorities are treating the killing as a potential politically motivated assassination and are coordinating with international law enforcement.
- Community and School Reaction: The American School of Madrid expressed condolences and implemented tighter security measures. The incident has deeply shocked the local and expat communities.
High-Profile Shooting Shocks Madrid Community
On the morning of May 21, 2025, Andriy Portnov, a former top aide to ousted Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych, was fatally shot outside the American School of Madrid in the affluent suburb of Pozuelo de Alarcón. The incident occurred around 9:15 a.m. local time as Portnov was returning to his vehicle after dropping off his children.
Details of the Attack
According to eyewitnesses and police reports, multiple assailants fired several shots at Portnov, striking him in the head and body. The attackers then fled the scene on foot, disappearing into a nearby wooded area. Emergency services arrived promptly, but Portnov was pronounced dead at the scene.
Background on Andriy Portnov
Portnov, 51, was a prominent figure in Ukrainian politics, serving as deputy head of the presidential administration under Yanukovych from 2010 to 2014. He played a significant role during the controversial period leading up to the 2014 Ukrainian revolution. Following the revolution, Portnov fled Ukraine, residing in countries including Russia and Austria before eventually settling in Spain.
In 2021, the U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned Portnov for alleged corruption and efforts to undermine democratic processes in Ukraine.
Investigation Underway
Spanish authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the assassination, exploring various motives, including potential political retribution and organized crime links. The National Police's specialized units are leading the inquiry, with assistance from international agencies due to the high-profile nature of the victim.
Community Response
The American School of Madrid issued a statement expressing condolences to the Portnov family and reassuring parents and students of their safety. Classes continued as scheduled, with increased security measures in place.
Local residents and the international community have expressed shock and concern over the brazen nature of the attack, highlighting the potential reach of political conflicts beyond national borders.
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