Security sources within Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) have confirmed to the BBC World Service that Kyiv is taking responsibility for the assassination of General Igor Kirillov, the commander of Russia’s nuclear, chemical, and biological defense forces. The senior Russian general, along with his aide, was killed earlier today in a deadly explosion in Moscow.
According to Russia’s Investigative Committee, the explosion occurred early Tuesday, December 17, when an electric scooter rigged with explosives detonated at the entrance of General Kirillov’s apartment building. While the committee has confirmed the death of Kirillov’s aide, it has yet to release additional details about the general’s fate.
Images from the scene reveal significant damage to the building’s entrance, with burn marks visible on the walls and several shattered windows. Nearby, two body bags were observed on the adjacent street, underscoring the severity of the attack.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions between Ukraine and Russia. Moscow has yet to issue an official response to Ukraine’s claims of responsibility.
