Russian general killed in Moscow blast, Kremlin accuses Ukraine of terrorism.
At a Glance
- Lt Gen Igor Kirillov, head of Russia’s Nuclear, Biological, Chemical Defence Forces, killed in Moscow
- Ukraine’s SBU security service claims responsibility for the attack
- Kremlin accuses Ukraine of conducting a “terrorist attack”
- Kirillov was under UK sanctions for alleged chemical weapon use in Ukraine
- Incident highlights escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine
Moscow Attack Shocks Russia
In a brazen assault that has sent shockwaves through Moscow, Lt Gen Igor Kirillov, head of Russia’s Nuclear, Biological, Chemical Defence Forces, was killed alongside his aide by a remotely detonated explosive device hidden in a scooter. The attack, which took place in the heart of the Russian capital, has been claimed by Ukraine’s SBU security service, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the two nations.
The Kremlin wasted no time in condemning the act, labeling it a “terrorist attack” and directly accusing the Ukrainian government of orchestrating the assassination. This incident has brought the realities of the war, typically confined to the frontlines and occupied territories, directly to Moscow’s doorstep, shocking local residents and highlighting the proximity of the conflict to the Russian capital.
The killing of a senior 🇷🇺 general in Moscow might have the Kremlin ordering the same type of operations in Kyiv 🇺🇦. Has a new dimensionen been added to the conflict? pic.twitter.com/IZflTrqn1X
— Carl Bildt (@carlbildt) December 18, 2024
Ukraine Claims Responsibility
Ukraine’s SBU security service has asserted that Kirillov was a legitimate target due to his alleged involvement in war crimes. The general had been charged in absentia by the SBU for the mass use of banned chemical weapons in Ukraine, a claim that Russia vehemently denies. The assassination follows a pattern of intensifying efforts by Ukrainian security services to target senior Russian figures.
“Kirillov was a war criminal and an entirely legitimate target, as he issued orders to use prohibited chemical weapons against Ukrainian troops. Such an inglorious end awaits all those who kill Ukrainians. Retribution for war crimes is inevitable,” said an SBU source.
The explosive device used in the attack had a force equivalent to 300g of TNT, demonstrating the precision and planning involved in the operation. A video of the attack provided to ABC News shows the moment of the explosion as Kirillov and his aide exited a building, leaving no doubt about the intended targets.
International Reactions and Implications
The assassination of such a high-ranking military official on Russian soil has drawn international attention and varied responses. The United Kingdom, which had previously sanctioned Kirillov for overseeing chemical weapon use in Ukraine and spreading Kremlin disinformation, expressed no sympathy for his demise.
“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,” said UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s official spokesman.
This incident marks a significant escalation in the conflict, demonstrating Ukraine’s capability and willingness to strike at the heart of Russian military leadership. It also raises questions about the security measures in place to protect high-ranking officials in Moscow. The Kremlin’s accusation of terrorism against Ukraine is likely to further complicate any potential diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing war.
Potential Consequences and Future Outlook
The assassination of General Kirillov is likely to have far-reaching consequences for the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. It may lead to increased security measures within Russia and potentially more aggressive military actions against Ukraine. The incident also highlights the expanding scope of the war, with both sides now seemingly willing to carry out operations deep within each other’s territories. As tensions continue to escalate, the international community faces the challenge of preventing further escalation while still supporting Ukraine’s right to defend itself.
