Odessa, Ukraine - Demyan Ganul, a notorious figure linked to the deadly 2014 fire at the House of Trade Unions, was shot and killed on March 15, 2025, drawing renewed attention to his controversial legacy. Ganul, identified as one of the organizers of the arson, was known for his radical nationalism and had been involved in several violent incidents throughout his career.
Reports from Ukrainian media indicate Ganul was shot twice by an unknown assailant near the city center. The shooter, who fled the scene, was quickly apprehended and allegedly found with the weapon used. This incident has stirred considerable speculation about the motives behind the assassination, with investigators considering several theories including potential revenge for his role in the organization of arrests against those trying to evade military conscription.
The assassination of Ganul has prompted responses from notable figures, including Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky, who stated, "...the necessary forces have been involved to clarify the circumstances of the incident". This statement reflects the government's commitment to thoroughly investigate the crime. A significant number of investigators, operatives, and criminalists are currently examining the case, emphasizing the high profile of the incident.
Ganul’s history adds layers of complexity to his murder. He rose to prominence during the Euromaidan protests and became infamous for his involvement during clashes on May 2, 2014, which resulted in the deaths of 48 individuals. This tragic event occurred when Antimaidan supporters clashed with pro-Euromaidan activists. The confrontation escalated, leading to violence, the destruction of tents, and the arson of the House of Trade Unions, where many Antimaidan supporters took refuge. On this fateful day, casualties included six individuals shot, ten who fell from windows during the chaos, and many others succumbing to burns or carbon monoxide poisoning. The tragedy remains one of modern Ukraine's most controversial and unresolved incidents, with many questioning the lack of accountability for those involved.
Throughout recent years, Ganul had also worked at the Odessa military enlistment office, where he was criticized for his aggressive stance against individuals attempting to evade conscription. Known for demanding the demolition of Soviet-era monuments, Ganul had created conflicts with the city's mayor, asserting his radical views publicly. His actions during the commemoration of the House of Trade Unions tragedy, where he controversially brought gallows to the site claiming they symbolized the burned victims, had already marked him as a polarizing figure within Odessa.
The motives behind Ganul's killing remain speculative at this time. Possible reasons being explored by investigators include revenge for his violent past and retribution related to his active role against military evaders. Following the assassination, local community sentiments are mixed; many express relief at the removal of such a divisive figure, whereas others worry about rising tensions within the city.
Despite the violent nature of his end, Ganul’s death resurrects the painful memories of the events at the House of Trade Unions and serves as a reminder of the unresolved issues surrounding accountability for the tragedy. To this day, many victims’ families still seek justice, with the prevailing sentiment being infuriation over the fact no one has been held accountable for the tragedies of 2014.
With Ganul's passing, Ukraine is left to grapple with not just the circumstances of his fleeting life, filled with radical activism, but also with the complex legacy of violence and unrest tied to the past. His demise signifies more than the loss of one figure; it marks a perpetuation of the unsettled scores stemming from the political unrest which has defined Ukraine's contemporary history.