Andriy Parubiy, former speaker of Ukraine’s parliament and a prominent figure in the Euromaidan protests, was shot dead in the western city of Lviv. The assassination occurred around noon in the Frankivsk district, a quiet residential area. A gunman disguised as a food delivery driver reportedly approached Parubiy, aged 54.The assailant fired multiple shots before fleeing the scene on an electric bicycle.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy Condemns the Murder
Following the tragic incident, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the killing as a horrific murder. The National Police and the Security Service of Ukraine have initiated a manhunt under the operation code-named Siren. While the motive remains unclear, officials are exploring all possibilities, including political and geopolitical factors.
Andriy Parubiy was a significant figure in Ukraine’s recent political history. He served as the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada parliament from 2016 to 2019 and as Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council in 2014 during critical moments in Ukraine’s conflict with Russia.
Parubiy was instrumental in the 2013–2014 Euromaidan protests, which led to the ousting of then-President Yanukovych and a shift towards closer ties with the European Union. His leadership in these events solidified his status as a national hero among many Ukrainians.
Investigations Underway Amidst Heightened Tensions
Authorities are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding Parubiy’s death. Although officials have not confirmed a link to Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, some suggest that political motives may have driven the assassination. Many recognized Parubiy for his hardline stance against Russian aggression and his unwavering advocacy for Ukrainian sovereignty .The killing adds to a series of high-profile incidents that have raised concerns about political violence in Ukraine.
The assassination has raised concerns about the safety of political figures in Ukraine, especially those involved in the ongoing conflict with Russia. Security experts warn that such targeted attacks could escalate tensions and undermine efforts towards peace and stability
