Spain closes inquiry into death of Russian pilot who fled to Ukraine

A Spanish court has provisionally halted its investigation into the killing of Russian pilot Maxim Kuzminov, who defected to Ukraine and was later found shot dead on Spain’s Mediterranean coast, stating on December 9 that authorities have been unable to identify those responsible.

Kuzminov, who flew a Mi-8 helicopter to Ukraine in August 2023, was discovered dead on February 13, 2024, in an underground garage in the southeastern town of Villajoyosa. His body had been riddled with bullets, and he was in possession of a Ukrainian passport issued under what police believe was a false identity.

The judge in Villajoyosa decided to close the case after investigators reported that neither the perpetrator nor anyone who might have ordered the killing could be identified. According to the ruling, dated September 2024, the investigative steps taken “did not make it possible to bring proceedings against a specific individual.” The court concluded that there was insufficient evidence to hold any person criminally liable either as the direct attacker or as an accomplice.

The ruling noted that the case may be reopened if new evidence comes to light.

Kuzminov’s defection had been hailed by Kyiv in 2023 as a significant intelligence and symbolic victory amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. During a news conference after his arrival, he said he could not comprehend why his “beloved motherland” would wage war against Ukraine.

Members of his helicopter crew died during the defection. Russian authorities claimed Kuzminov killed them, while he insisted they panicked, fled the aircraft and may have been killed later.

By Tamilla Hasanova