A high-ranking Russian general, Lt Gen Igor Kirillov, has been killed in a deadly explosion in Moscow. Kirillov, the commander of the Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Defence Forces, was targeted while leaving a residential building early on Tuesday. The incident involved a device concealed within a scooter, according to Russia’s Investigative Committee.
Witness accounts revealed significant destruction at the scene, including damage to the building entrance, scorch marks on the walls, and shattered windows. Two body bags were visible on the street.
In October, Kirillov faced sanctions from the UK for his alleged role in overseeing the use of chemical weapons in Ukraine and for being a major proponent of Kremlin disinformation. On Monday, Ukraine’s Security Service charged him in absentia, accusing him of orchestrating the mass use of prohibited chemical weapons, a claim that Russia firmly denies.
The Investigative Committee has initiated a criminal case regarding the murder of two servicemen and reported that a team of investigators and forensic experts are currently working at the scene to uncover all details related to the crime.
Under UK sanctions, Kirillov was subjected to both an asset freeze and a travel ban, with British officials labeling him as a key vehicle for Kremlin propaganda. Earlier in May, U.S. officials accused Russia of using chemical weapons in Ukraine, stating it violated international law. The Kremlin dismissed these allegations as unfounded.
