Spanish Court Classifies Investigation into Murder of Former Ukrainian Advisor

A Spanish court has ruled to keep the investigation file on the murder of Andriy Portnov, a former advisor to ex-Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych, classified. Portnov was shot dead on May 21, 2025, in a suburb of Madrid, prompting Judge Maria Espinosa to cite the “sensitivity of the data” as a reason for the restriction, which aims to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation. Authorities are actively pursuing both the shooter and two accomplices involved in the crime.

The murder of Portnov, a prominent Ukrainian political figure, has sparked widespread controversy across Europe, raising concerns about the safety of political exiles and potential motives tied to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

Portnov was gunned down in the Las Rozas neighborhood, close to the American International School. An assailant fired at least nine rounds from a silenced pistol before fleeing in a vehicle with two accomplices. Madrid police discovered Portnov’s body in a parking lot next to his car and promptly placed three suspects on their wanted list. Surveillance footage captured a black SUV that the assailants are believed to have used, although their identities remain unknown. Investigators are exploring the possibility that Portnov’s murder was a contract killing linked to his political activities.

Having served as Yanukovych’s advisor from 2010 to 2014, Portnov left Ukraine following the Euromaidan protests and settled in Spain, where he obtained a residence permit. He was known for his outspoken criticism of the Kyiv government, accusing it of corruption and maintaining connections with various pro-Russian politicians. His assassination occurs amid rising tensions in the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, fueling speculation about potential involvement from intelligence services.