A high-ranking Russian military officer, Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov, met his demise in a targeted explosion in Moscow on Tuesday.
Details of the Attack
Kirillov, who led the chemical, biological, and radiation defence troops of the Russian armed forces, was killed alongside his deputy by a bomb concealed within an electric scooter. The incident occurred outside a residential building on Ryazansky Avenue, southeast of the city, as the two were exiting the premises.
Investigation and Damage
The Russian Investigative Committee, which handles significant criminal cases, confirmed that the explosive was detonated near the building’s entrance. The explosion not only claimed the lives of Kirillov and his deputy but also caused significant structural damage, shattering windows and severely impacting the building’s front door.
Background on Kirillov
Kirillov had been in his leadership role since 2017. His tenure was notably marked by Britain imposing sanctions on him in October, citing his involvement in the alleged deployment of chemical weapons in Ukraine.
Context of the Incident
This assassination comes at a time when Russia’s ongoing “special military operation” in Ukraine approaches its third year, highlighting the heightened tensions and the direct impact on Russian military leadership.
