According to the media, former Russian pilot Maxim Kuzminov was found dead in Spain. Last year, he was in the spotlight, transferring a helicopter from Russia to Ukraine and voluntarily surrendered to the Ukrainian military. The information about his death was confirmed by the Air Force forces of Ukraine through the Main Directorate of Intelligence of the Ministry of Defense.
Initially, Russian sources spread information about the death of Kuzminov, referring to "Italian and Spanish media". However, the primary sources of these messages have raised doubts about their authenticity.
All sources argued that the pilot was killed, and it was likely that it happened because of its transition to the side of Ukraine, which cited the conflict with the Russian authorities.
Later, the spokesman of GUR Andriy Yusov confirmed the fact of the death of the pilot, but did not provide further details about the circumstances of the event.
At the same time, Ukrainian Pravda, referring to its own sources in Ukrainian special services, reported that Kuzminov's death was the result of murder.
"He decided to move to Spain instead of staying here. From what we know: he invited his former to himself, but was found shot dead," the interlocutor said.
A burned car was found near the scene, on which the killer was likely to flee.
No additional information about this incident, including whether the murder was and where the events were held.
In August 2023, it became known about the incredible act of the Russian military, which overtook the Mi-8amt helicopter to Ukraine and voluntarily surrendered to the Ukrainian military. This fascinating story received a loud epilogue when a video was presented on the state television of the Russian Federation, in which the Russian GRU staff threatened a pilot-proud man.
It turns out that the helicopter capture plan was developed within a few months, as reported by Ukraine's military intelligence. And finally, on August 9, 2023, the helicopter landed in the territory of the Vovchansk community in Kharkiv region. In addition to the helicopter with the onboard number 62, Ukrainian scouts also received valuable documentation and secret technical equipment.
According to the Main Directorate of Intelligence of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, a pilot, which stole the helicopter, was 28-year-old captain Maxim Kuzminov, who commanded the Mi-8. He served in the 319th separate helicopter regiment of army aviation of Russia. It is interesting that Kuzminov himself contacted representatives of Ukrainian intelligence.
"I turned to Ukrainian intelligence representatives, explained my situation. I was provided with security guarantees, new documents, monetary compensation and reward. We discussed details and started planning my flight," Kuzminov said.
He also spoke about a difficult flight that took place at low height in radio, which allowed him to land successfully.
However, during the special operation Kuzminov was injured, but he was provided in time. The main motive of his act was the categorical rejection of the aggressive war that Russia began against Ukraine, as well as the refusal to be involved in military crimes.
