Russian Chemical Defense Chief General Kirillov Assassinated in Moscow Blast

Russian Chemical Defense Chief General Kirillov Assassinated in Moscow Blast

A devastating explosion rocked Moscow's Ryazansky Prospekt on the morning of December 17, claiming the lives of Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov, head of the Troops of Radiological, Chemical, and Biological Defense of the Russian Armed Forces, and his assistant. The Russian Investigative Committee has launched a criminal case into the murder, with a search for the perpetrator currently underway .

According to eyewitnesses and emergency services, the blast was caused by an improvised explosive device (IED) planted on an electric scooter at the entrance of a residential building in southeast Moscow. The device contained approximately 200 grams of TNT, a powerful explosive that caused significant damage to the surrounding area.

The investigation into the blast is ongoing, with bomb squad forensic experts and investigators working to determine the circumstances of the crime. Video footage from nearby surveillance cameras has been seized and is being reviewed by investigators.

General Kirillov was a prominent figure in Russia's military establishment, known for his fearless exposure of the "heinous crimes of the Anglo-Saxons and NATO provocations," according to Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. His murder has sent shockwaves throughout Russia, with many condemning the attack as a cowardly act of terrorism.

Konstantin Kosachev, deputy speaker of Russia's upper house of parliament, vowed that Kirillov's murder would not go unpunished. "This is a shock. An irreparable loss. Eternal memory. Condolences to the families of the victims. The murderers will be punished—without a doubt and without mercy," Kosachev wrote on Telegram.

As the investigation into General Kirillov's murder continues, many questions remain unanswered. Who was behind the blast, and what were their motives? How will Russia respond to this brazen act of terrorism? One thing is certain, however: General Kirillov's legacy as a fearless and dedicated military leader will not be forgotten.