Explosion in Electric Scooter Claims General’s Life
Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov, Russia’s top chemical and biological defense commander, was killed in an explosion in Moscow. The device, hidden inside an electric scooter, detonated as Kirillov and his deputy exited a residential building in the city’s southeast. Both men died instantly at the scene.
Dashcam footage from a nearby vehicle captured the deadly moment. Seconds after the two officers stepped outside, the powerful blast shattered windows and caused panic in the quiet residential neighborhood. Investigators confirmed the bomb had been planted in the scooter and likely detonated remotely.
Ukraine’s security service, the SBU, claimed responsibility for the attack. A Ukrainian official stated the operation targeted Kirillov for his role in alleged war crimes against Ukrainian forces. The assassination came just one day after Ukraine issued an arrest warrant for him.
Kirillov’s Controversial Legacy
Kirillov had led Russia’s radiological, chemical, and biological defense forces (RKhBZ) since 2017. His unit specialized in operations under hazardous conditions, including chemical and biological warfare. Western nations, however, accused him of orchestrating attacks using banned chemical agents, such as chloropicrin, on Ukrainian forces.
In October, the UK sanctioned Kirillov for deploying these weapons and spreading disinformation. He frequently appeared in public briefings, accusing Ukraine of developing chemical weapons and so-called “dirty bombs.” At one point, Kirillov claimed Ukraine planned to use drones to release malaria-infected mosquitoes on Russian troops.
Kirillov was also a vocal figure during Russia’s denial of international incidents. He attempted to undermine the UK’s investigation into the poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal, calling it a Western conspiracy.
Russia Vows Revenge as Investigations Intensify
Russian authorities launched an immediate investigation into the assassination. Officials are focusing on how Kirillov’s movements were tracked, how the device was planted, and where the detonation originated.
Dmitry Medvedev, deputy head of Russia’s security council, issued a sharp warning. “We will ensure that those behind this attack, including Ukraine’s leadership, pay the price,” he said.
Kirillov’s killing follows a series of high-profile strikes targeting Russian military and government figures. Last week, Ukrainian intelligence claimed responsibility for the death of Russian missile scientist Mikhail Shatsky near Moscow. Earlier this year, Ukraine also targeted GRU officers and naval commanders in both Russia and occupied Crimea.
Shifting Risks for Russia’s Military Leadership
The assassination of Kirillov signals an escalation in Ukraine’s ability to strike deep within Russian territory. His high rank and prominence make this one of the most significant attacks since the conflict began.
A former Russian defense official called the incident a “wake-up call” for Russia’s military leadership. “The Ministry of Defense will see this as a serious security breach,” the source noted. Senior military figures are now expected to receive heightened protection, including constant surveillance by elite security forces.
Although Vladimir Putin recently declared that the war in Ukraine had reached a “turning point,” this bold attack underscores persistent vulnerabilities in Russia’s security apparatus. For Ukraine, it represents a significant psychological and operational blow against Russia’s military leadership.