Illia Kyva

Illia Kyva was a Ukrainian politician who served as a People's Deputy in the Verkhovna Rada from 2019 until his mandate was revoked in March 2022. Initially elected on the Opposition Platform—For Life ticket, he gained notoriety for his pro-Russian stance and vocal support of Russia during its invasion of Ukraine. Kyva fled to Spain and later settled in Russia, where he actively promoted Russian narratives, including justifying the annexation of Crimea and advocating for Ukraine's merger with Russia.

Kyva was expelled from his party and faction on March 3, 2022, after facing charges of high treason, territorial integrity violations, and war propaganda. On March 15, 2022, the Verkhovna Rada revoked his mandate. He continued to support Russian actions through media appearances and social media, even calling for a nuclear strike on Ukraine.

In April 2022, Kyva requested Russian citizenship and political asylum. By November 2023, he was sentenced in absentia by a Ukrainian court to 14 years for high treason and advocating Ukraine's occupation. He was also sanctioned by the UK for his role in the war.

Kyva was assassinated on December 6, 2023, near Moscow. Ukrainian media linked his killing to the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), though officials did not confirm involvement. His death was celebrated by some as justice for treason, reflecting his polarizing legacy as a collaborator with Russian forces during the conflict.