Former Ukrainian parliament speaker Andriy Parubiy has been shot dead in Lviv. Authorities launch “Operation Siren” to track the gunman amid rising tensions and possible Russian involvement.
Table of Contents
Authorities launch “Operation Siren”
Introduction
Ukraine is reeling after the shocking assassination of Andriy Parubiy, a prominent Ukrainian politician and former speaker of parliament, who was shot dead in Lviv on Saturday.
Authorities have launched a massive manhunt, codenamed “Operation Siren”, to track down the suspect.
The killing comes amid escalating tensions in Ukraine, with officials investigating potential Russian involvement in what appears to be a carefully planned attack.
What Happened in Lviv
According to Ukrainian officials, Parubiy, 54, was walking along a street in Lviv when an unidentified gunman approached him dressed as a Glovo courier.
Eyewitnesses and video footage show the attacker carrying a yellow delivery bag and riding an e-bike, blending into the busy streets before firing multiple shots at close range.
Key Details of the Attack
- Time: Saturday afternoon, Lviv city center
- Method: Gunman disguised as Glovo courier
- Shots fired: 7–8 rounds
- Victim: Andriy Parubiy, prominent politician
- Status: Died instantly at the scene
- Investigation: Ongoing, with possible Russian links
Lviv’s police chief Oleksandr Shliakhovskyi stated that the shooter “fired about eight shots from a firearm, which has not yet been identified.”
The suspect then fled the scene, prompting authorities to seal off surrounding streets and deploy elite special forces as part of the manhunt.
Operation Siren: Ukraine Launches Massive Manhunt
Ukrainian authorities have activated a special nationwide manhunt under the codename “Operation Siren.”
President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the killing, calling it a “terrible murder” and vowed to use “all necessary forces and means” to capture the assailant.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs confirmed that:
- Border checkpoints have been tightened.
- All major highways leading out of Lviv are under surveillance.
- Drones and security cameras are being used to track the suspect’s movements.
Meanwhile, Glovo, the delivery company whose uniform the suspect used, issued a statement saying they were “deeply shocked” and pledged full cooperation with investigators.
Who Was Andriy Parubiy?
Andriy Parubiy was a key figure in Ukrainian politics and a symbol of resistance during Ukraine’s fight for sovereignty.
Career Highlights
- Born: January 31, 1971
- Role: Former Speaker of Ukraine’s Parliament (2016–2019)
- Known For: Organizing Ukraine’s Euromaidan protests in 2013–2014
- Positions Held:
- Co-founder of the Euromaidan self-defense units
- Secretary of Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council
- Member of Ukraine’s territorial defense forces after Russia’s 2022 invasion
Parubiy was considered a patriot by his supporters and one of the architects of Ukraine’s democratic movement.
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha described him as:
“A patriot and statesman who made an enormous contribution to the defence of Ukraine’s freedom, independence, and sovereignty.”
Possible Russian Involvement Under Investigation
Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of Russian intelligence involvement.
Given Parubiy’s pro-EU stance and his pivotal role in the 2014 Euromaidan protests that ousted pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych, analysts suspect the attack may have been politically motivated.
Lviv’s chief prosecutor Mykola Meret stated:
“All possible motives are being investigated, including potential Russian involvement.”
If confirmed, this would mark a major escalation in the already tense Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Global Reactions to the Assassination
Parubiy’s killing has sparked global condemnation and renewed international calls for stability in Ukraine.
Statements from Key Figures
- Volodymyr Zelensky (President): Called the attack a “terrible murder” and pledged a swift investigation.
- Petro Poroshenko (Former President): Described the killing as “a shot fired at the heart of Ukraine.”
- Andrii Sybiha (Foreign Minister): Praised Parubiy’s contributions and called him a “man who rightfully belongs in the history books.”
The European Union and NATO have also issued statements condemning the assassination and urging Ukraine to maintain stability.
The Symbolism Behind the Attack
Andriy Parubiy was not just a politician — he was a symbol of Ukrainian sovereignty.
- He defended Ukraine’s democracy during the Euromaidan revolution.
- He helped strengthen Ukraine’s territorial defense forces after Russia’s 2022 invasion.
- He inspired a generation of Ukrainians to fight for independence.
His assassination represents a direct attack on Ukraine’s political leadership and could mark a turning point in the country’s ongoing struggle.
What’s Next for Ukraine
With the Russia-Ukraine war still ongoing, Parubiy’s death could escalate political tensions and increase instability.
Ukraine’s government has promised:
- Swift justice for the perpetrators
- Increased security measures in Lviv and Kyiv
- Greater coordination between law enforcement and intelligence agencies
Meanwhile, fears of political assassinations are rising, prompting heightened security for top government officials.
FAQs
1. Who was Andriy Parubiy?
He was a prominent Ukrainian politician, former parliament speaker, and a key figure in the 2014 Euromaidan protests.
2. Where was he killed?
Parubiy was shot dead in Lviv, a western Ukrainian city near the Polish border.
3. Has the suspect been caught?
Not yet. A nationwide manhunt called Operation Siren is underway to track the suspect.
4. Is Russia involved in the assassination?
Authorities are investigating possible Russian links, but no confirmation has been made.