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Ukraine's covert operations, Lt. Gen. Igor Kirillov, head of Russia's Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Defense Forces, was assassinated in Moscow on December 17, 2024. The incident, which Ukrainian intelligence claims responsibility for, marks a significant and rare attack on Russian soil amidst the ongoing conflict between the two nations.
The explosion occurred early Tuesday morning outside a residential block on Ryazansky Avenue. Russian investigators confirmed that an improvised explosive device (IED), concealed in an electric scooter, was detonated remotely. The blast killed Kirillov, 54, and his assistant instantly, leaving the entrance to the building charred, windows shattered, and local residents in shock. "It's terrifying to witness something like this so close to home," said Liza, a resident of the adjacent building.
Kirillov, accused by Ukraine of orchestrating chemical weapon attacks, was recently charged in absentia for the "mass use of banned chemical agents." The UK and U.S. had previously sanctioned him, with evidence suggesting Russian forces deployed chemical agents like chloropicrin over 4,800 times in Ukraine, causing thousands of injuries and several deaths. Kyiv justified the assassination as a legitimate response to war crimes, with an SBU source declaring, "Kirillov was a key figure in Russia's illegal and inhumane military operations."
Unverified footage shows the moment the bomb exploded as Kirillov exited the building. While no additional explosives were discovered at the scene, Russia's Investigative Committee has launched a full inquiry, vowing to identify those responsible. Dmitry Medvedev, former president and current security official, called the assassination "an act of terrorism" and promised retaliation. "We will bring the masterminds in Kyiv to justice," he said.
This incident follows a string of targeted assassinations of Russian figures, including prominent military and intelligence officers. Experts note that Ukraine's operations signal a shift towards more aggressive tactics aimed at destabilizing Russia's leadership. However, these attacks have also heightened tensions in Moscow, with residents now grappling with the war's proximity. "Until now, it felt far away. This changes everything," said Olga Bogomolova, another local witness.
While Ukraine defends its actions as necessary measures against an existential threat, Russia's leadership views these events as provocations warranting severe responses.
