"Russian Defector Killed in Spain: Implications for Russia-Ukraine Relations"

Spanish intelligence services believe that the Kremlin orchestrated the assassination of Russian defector Maxim Kuzminov in Alicante, with the involvement of Russian authorities suspected. The murder, a warning to potential defectors, marks the first such killing on Spanish soil and has prompted diplomatic caution from the Spanish government. The operation, likely carried out by professional hitmen from outside Spain, has raised concerns about the involvement of Russian citizens living in Spain and mafia organizations. The decision to settle in an area with a significant Russian and Ukrainian population may have contributed to Kuzminov's exposure, as he lacked official protection from Spanish authorities.