A hidden explosive device in Moscow has claimed the life of Lt. Gen. Igor Kirillov, intensifying the already tense Russia-Ukraine relations.
At a Glance
- Lt. Gen. Igor Kirillov was killed by a scooter bomb in Moscow.
- The attack came after he was accused by Ukraine of war crimes.
- Ukraine’s SBU claims responsibility, citing Kirillov as a “legitimate target.”
- Russia vows retaliation against Ukraine, labeling the attack as terrorism.
- The explosive was remotely triggered, causing significant damage.
Tragic Loss of a High-ranking Military Official
Lt. Gen. Igor Kirillov, head of Russia’s Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Defence Forces, was killed by a bomb hidden in a scooter outside his Moscow apartment. The bomb’s detonation resulted in the death of Kirillov and his assistant. The device incorporated cutting-edge technology, enabling a remote-controlled detonation that left a significant impact on the community and a symbol of the ongoing strife between Russia and Ukraine.
The attack on Kirillov came mere hours after Ukraine’s Security Service filed criminal charges against him. Ukraine’s SBU has admitted to orchestrating the attack, labeling Kirillov a “war criminal and an entirely legitimate target” due to his alleged involvement in directing operations that used chemical weapons in Ukraine.
The chief of Russian nuclear protection forces, Igor Kirillov has been killed in a bomb blast outside an apartment building in Moscow. Investigators say the bomb was hidden in an electric scooter and detonated as Kirillov and his deputy left the building. pic.twitter.com/lRjZEidrv7
— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) December 17, 2024
Investigation and Reactions
Russia’s Investigative Committee has declared the incident an act of terrorism. Spokesperson Svetlana Petrenko stated, “Investigators, forensic experts and operational services are working at the scene,” reflecting the urgency in addressing this breach to Moscow’s security. Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev accused Ukraine of using the attack to divert attention from their battlefield setbacks and pledged that Russia’s senior military-political leadership would face inevitable retribution.
Amid these developments, the UK Prime Minister’s spokesman remarked, “Clearly we are not going to mourn the death of an individual who has propagated an illegal invasion and imposed suffering and death on the Ukrainian people.” The sentiment underscores the divide not only on the political stage but also in international relations.
Context of the Attack and Its Implications
This intense episode comes against the backdrop of escalating tensions in Ukraine, with Russia recently making territorial gains. Kirillov had been sanctioned by several countries, including the U.K. and Canada, severely impacting his international standing. The Department of State highlighted the recurrent use of chemical agents like chloropicrin, linking it directly to his operations.
The attack represents a penetrative blow to Moscow, emphasizing the reality of the Ukraine conflict spilling into the heart of Russia. Kirillov’s death, similar to other recent assassinations of Russian officials, resonates deeply within the local populace, stirring inevitable unrest and uncertainty surrounding future repercussions.
Sources:
- Ukraine says it killed Russian general Igor Kirillov in Moscow
- Bomb from scooter rigged to blow kills Russia’s nuke chief and his assistant in Moscow
