The death of Lt. Gen. Igor Kirillov, who led Russia’s chemical, biological and radiation defense forces, has prompted accusations from Moscow that NATO allies are aiding Ukraine in carrying out terrorist acts. The general was killed Tuesday in a scooter bombing outside his Moscow apartment.
The explosive, described as highly advanced, was remotely detonated as Kirillov and an aide exited the building. Both were killed instantly, and Ukrainian officials quickly claimed responsibility for the attack, calling it justified.
🇷🇺 #Russia 🇺🇿 #Uzbekistan
⚡️The FSB has released a video of a 29-year-old Uzbek citizen arrested for involvement in the assassination of Lt. Gen. Igor Kirillov in Moscow.
Russian investigators confirmed that the suspect was recruited by Ukrainian intelligence to carry out the… https://t.co/ksoozUglD9 pic.twitter.com/v1CAtZBhMd
— Silvio do Quental (@SilviodoQuental) December 18, 2024
Ukraine accused Kirillov of overseeing chemical weapon deployments, with a Ukrainian official stating, “Retribution for war crimes is inevitable.” The official cited over 4,800 documented uses of banned chemical agents by Russian forces under Kirillov’s command.
Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev called the bombing a desperate act by Ukraine to prolong the war. “Those responsible will face severe consequences,” Medvedev said, accusing Kyiv of trying to intimidate Russia and its military leadership.
𝐑𝐮𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐚 𝐃𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐁𝐨𝐦𝐛 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
According to CNN, a 29-year-old Uzbek man was arrested by Russia for his alleged role in the assassination of Lt. Gen. Igor Kirillov, head of Russia’s radiological, biological and chemical protection… pic.twitter.com/O3rDryFwPI— TechBuzzRecap (@TechBuzzRecap) December 18, 2024
Russia has reported that a 29-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the killing of Kirillov.
Maria Zakharova of Russia’s Foreign Ministry criticized the lack of Western condemnation, calling it tacit approval of terrorism. “Ukraine’s allies are accomplices by remaining silent,” she stated, adding that the Kremlin would not let such actions go unanswered.
This targeted killing has heightened tensions between Russia and NATO, with Moscow suggesting Western intelligence agencies may have supported Ukraine’s efforts. The assassination represents a dangerous new phase in the ongoing conflict.
