MOSCOW, Dec 17,(V7N) – A senior Russian military official, Igor Kirillov, commander of the Russian armed forces' chemical, biological, and radiation defense troops, was killed on Tuesday when an explosive device hidden in a scooter detonated outside a building in southeastern Moscow, investigators confirmed.

The explosion also claimed the life of Kirillov’s deputy as the two exited the building on Ryazansky Avenue early that morning.

Details of the Incident

Russia’s Investigative Committee, tasked with major criminal inquiries, stated:

“An explosive device planted in a scooter parked near the entrance of a residential building was activated on the morning of December 17.”

The powerful blast shattered nearby windows and caused severe damage to the building's front door, as shown in images shared by Russian media.

Kirillov’s Role and Background

Kirillov, who had served in his post since 2017, was sanctioned by Britain in October for Russia's alleged use of chemical weapons in Ukraine.

The deadly incident comes amid rising tensions as Moscow's military campaign in Ukraine approaches its third anniversary. Authorities have launched an investigation into the attack as they work to identify those responsible.

END/WD/RH