Russia security service has detained a 29-year-old man from Uzbekistan in connection with the assassination of Lt Gen Igor Kirillov, a senior military figure and head of the Radiation, Chemical, and Biological Protection Forces. Kirillov and his assistant were killed in Moscow on Tuesday when an explosive device hidden in an electric scooter detonated outside a residential building. Russian officials allege Ukrainian intelligence orchestrated the attack, a claim echoed by a Ukrainian security source who described Kirillov as “a legitimate target.”
Deadly Blast in Moscow
The explosion occurred early Tuesday outside Kirillov’s apartment block in southeastern Moscow. The general and his assistant were killed instantly when the scooter-borne bomb was remotely detonated. Pictures from the scene revealed a damaged building entrance, shattered windows, and scorch marks on the walls. Body bags were visible on the street, underscoring the tragic impact of the blast. Officials allege that the individual arrived in Moscow with a homemade explosive device, which he placed on the scooter near Kirillov’s residence.
Ukraine’s Involvement Alleged
Ukrainian intelligence has taken responsibility for the killing, according to a source speaking to the BBC. They accused Kirillov of war crimes, citing his alleged role in the use of banned chemical weapons during the ongoing conflict. Just one day before the assassination, Ukraine had charged Kirillov in absentia for overseeing chemical weapon attacks.
Kirillov, 54, had also faced sanctions from the UK for his alleged involvement in the use of chemical weapons in Ukraine. Ukrainian officials claim Russia deployed chemical weapons over 4,800 times under Kirillov’s leadership. Russia has denied these accusations, maintaining that it destroyed its chemical weapons stockpile in 2017.
Detention of the Suspect
The suspect was arrested in the village of Chernoye, Balashikha, in the Moscow region. According to a statement from Russia’s Interior Ministry, the individual has been transferred to investigative authorities. A video released by the FSB shows the detained man, wearing a visibly torn coat and handcuffs, confessing to the crime.
The FSB said the suspect followed instructions to detonate the bomb when Kirillov exited his apartment. Russian authorities have labeled the attack a terrorist act and vowed to hold all involved accountable.
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Implications of the Assassination
Kirillov’s killing marks a significant moment in the conflict, as he is the highest-ranking military figure assassinated inside Russia since the invasion of Ukraine began.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed condolences over Kirillov’s death, and officials have promised a thorough investigation. The incident adds further tension to an already volatile conflict, with both sides accusing each other of escalating tactics.
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