Ukraine Accuses Own Secret Service in Politician's Death Near Moscow
In a surprising twist, Ukraine has taken responsibility for the death of pro-Russian politician Ilya Kyva, who was found dead near Moscow with a head wound. This announcement comes after another pro-Russian politician, Oleg Popov, was killed in an attack in Luhansk, with Russian authorities yet to identify the culprit.
Kyva, a former Ukrainian lawmaker with a pro-Russian stance, had moved to Russia following the 2022 invasion and was involved in pro-Kremlin talk shows and roundtable discussions. Ukrainian courts sentenced him to 14 years in prison for high treason in his absence.
The Russian Investigative Committee confirmed Kyva’s death and announced the initiation of a criminal investigation. Andriy Yusov, a spokesman for Ukraine's military intelligence, confirmed his death and described Kyva as "one of the greatest traitors and collaborators." He hinted at potential further actions against pro-Russian politicians.
In Luhansk, Oleg Popov, a former de facto lawmaker in the Russian-occupied part of the region, was killed by an explosive device that detonated in his car on December 6, 2024. The Investigative Committee launched a probe into Popov’s death, and Ukraine's Main Directorate of Intelligence claimed responsibility, stating that it was part of efforts to target individuals collaborating with Russian authorities.
Recent Developments and Motives
- Ilya Kyva:
- Murder: The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) was responsible for Kyva's death in a special operation on December 6, 2024, in the village of Suponevo southwest of Moscow[1].
- Background: Kyva had been a target of Ukrainian counter-intelligence for his pro-Russian activities.
- Oleg Popov:
- Murder: The explosive device that detonated in Popov's car in the city of Luhansk on December 6, 2024, resulted in his death.
- Background: Popov had participated in Russian-installed government committees and was a prominent figure in the Russian-occupied part of Luhansk[1].
Responses
Ukraine: - Actions: Ukraine's military intelligence has been actively targeting individuals collaborating with Russian authorities, as evident in the cases of Kyva and Popov[1]. - Statements: Andriy Yusov's statement indicates a broader strategy by Ukraine to deal with traitors and supporters of the Russian regime[1].
Russia: - Investigations: Russian authorities have launched criminal investigations into both Kyva and Popov's deaths. - Assertions: Russian officials accuse Ukrainian special services of organizing the assassinations[1].
Broader Context
These incidents reflect the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, with both sides involved in counter-intelligence and counter-terrorist operations. The targeting of pro-Russian politicians and collaborators underscores the deepening divisions and the escalating measures taken by both countries to secure their interests in the region.
Sources
[1] "Ukraine's SBU Confirms Ilya Kyva's Death by Special Operation in Russia," Kyiv Post, December 10, 2024, .
