Ukraine's ex-parliamentary speaker met a fatal gunshot

In the western city of Lviv, Ukraine, a tragic incident occurred on Saturday as former parliamentary speaker Andriy Parubiy was shot dead. The shooting was reported around noon local time, and no details regarding the killer's identity or motives have been provided by Ukrainian law enforcement.

Parubiy, a prominent figure in Ukrainian politics, was a key leader during the Euromaidan protests in 2013-14, calling for closer ties with the European Union. He also served as secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council from February to August 2014.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed condolences to Parubiy's family and loved ones, stating that all necessary forces are engaged in the investigation and search for the killer. Zelenskyy reported on the murder and described it as a significant loss for Ukraine.

Former President Petro Poroshenko described the killing as "a shot fired at the heart of Ukraine." Tributes poured in for Parubiy, praising his contribution to Ukraine's fight for sovereignty and independence. Andriy Sybiha, Ukrainian Foreign Minister, described Parubiy as "a patriot and statesman who made an enormous contribution to the defense of Ukraine's freedom, independence and sovereignty."

Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko called for a prompt investigation into Parubiy's murder, describing it as a "profound loss" for the country. The Prosecutor General's office stated that a gunman fired several shots at Parubiy, killing him on the spot.

Initial suspicions pointed towards a Russian agent being involved in the murder, but it was later revealed that the shooting was carried out by a 52-year-old local man who confessed to killing Parubiy out of personal revenge against the Ukrainian authorities. The killer’s motive was linked to his son’s death in the war, and he showed no remorse, stating he killed Parubiy "because he was nearby."

Meanwhile, deadly Israeli strikes are being carried out as the IDF advances towards Gaza City, and Pope Leo XIV denounced a 'pandemic of arms' during a prayer for victims of a Minnesota school shooting. The attack occurred during a period when fighting began in eastern Ukraine and Russia annexed the Crimea peninsula.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing tensions in the region and the importance of peace and justice in resolving conflicts. Our thoughts are with Parubiy's family and loved ones during this difficult time.