In a tragic incident, a Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) officer was shot dead in Kyiv, marking what authorities suggest may be an assassination. The SBU confirmed the death, although they have not disclosed the identity of the officer. An investigation is currently underway.
Local Telegram channels circulated silent CCTV footage that allegedly captured the event. Although CNN has not independently verified the footage, its location aligns with official images released by Kyiv Police. The video presents a man exiting an apartment building during daylight, carrying bags and heading towards a nearby vehicle. He is then approached by a masked assailant brandishing a firearm. The attacker opens fire, causing the officer to collapse, and reportedly fires again before fleeing the scene, while a bystander runs away in panic.
Kyiv Police have initiated a manhunt for the suspect, who they are working to identify, alongside other law enforcement agencies. The victim was discovered at the location, having suffered gunshot wounds. The SBU, Ukraine’s principal security agency, has recently garnered attention for its pivotal role in significant operations, including a successful drone assault dubbed “Operation Spiderweb.” This operation targeted Russian airfields and resulted in the destruction of numerous military aircraft, a considerable embarrassment for Russia.
Previously, Ukrainian security sources indicated that the SBU was implicated in the assassination of Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov, accused by Kyiv of chemical weapons crimes. The situation remains tense as Kyiv continues to grapple with security challenges amidst ongoing conflict.