Russian general Igor Kirillov, his assistant killed in Moscow explosion
A recent explosion in Moscow has led to the assassination of Lt. Gen. Igor Kirillov, the commander of Russia’s chemical, biological, and radiation defense forces, along with his assistant. The incident occurred when an explosive device placed in a scooter near a residential apartment block on Ryazansky Avenue was triggered remotely. This act of violence came just one day after Ukrainian Security Services charged Kirillov with crimes.
According to reports from the Russian Investigative Committee, the bomb used in the attack had the power equivalent to roughly 300 grams of TNT. The Ukrainian Security Services, or SBU, has claimed credit for the assassination. An anonymous SBU official stated that Kirillov was considered a “war criminal and an entirely legitimate target.”
The Russian Investigative Committee is currently conducting investigations at the scene of the explosion. Spokeswoman Svetlana Petrenko mentioned that forensic experts and operational services are working to uncover all the circumstances surrounding the crime. The incident is being treated as a terrorist attack by Russian authorities.
Kirillov had been charged by the SBU with using banned chemical weapons on the battlefield just a day before his assassination. He had also faced sanctions from several countries for his involvement in the war against Ukraine. The SBU reported over 4,800 uses of chemical weapons during Russia’s attack on Ukraine, which began in February 2022.
The deadly blast outside the residential building on Ryazansky Avenue has shocked the nation, prompting concerns about escalating tensions between Ukraine and Russia. The situation remains volatile as both countries navigate through this tragic event.
As more details emerge about the assassination of Lt. Gen. Igor Kirillov, the international community is closely monitoring the developments. The impact of this incident on diplomatic relations between Ukraine and Russia remains to be seen.
This report has been updated to identify Lt. Gen. Igor Kirillov as the commander of Russia’s chemical, biological, and radiation defense forces. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
