Written by Lisa Murimi
Russian authorities have detained a 29-year-old man from Uzbekistan in connection with the assassination of Lt Gen Igor Kirillov, head of the Radiation, Chemical, and Biological Protection Forces, and his assistant in Moscow.
The attack, which involved an explosive device hidden in an electric scooter, occurred early Tuesday outside Kirillov’s apartment building.
The Russian Investigative Committee (SK) alleges the suspect admitted to being recruited by Ukrainian special services, though no evidence has been provided to substantiate the claim.
Ukraine’s security service (SBU) previously hinted at involvement, with a source describing Kirillov as “a legitimate target” and accusing him of war crimes.
The explosive was remotely detonated as Kirillov and his assistant exited the building, the SK reported.
Surveillance of the area was allegedly conducted via a car with a live streaming camera linked to organizers in Ukraine’s Dnipro.
Kirillov, 54, was a prominent figure in Russia’s military and had been charged in absentia by Ukraine a day before the attack for allegedly overseeing the use of banned chemical weapons.
Moscow denies the allegations, asserting its compliance with international agreements.
The Kremlin expressed condolences, while Russian officials vowed justice and pledged to address the assassination at an upcoming UN Security Council meeting.
