A devastating explosion in southeastern Moscow has claimed the lives of two individuals, including Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov, head of Russia’s Radiological Chemical and Biological Defense Forces.
The incident occurred near a residential building and is believed to have involved a remotely controlled improvised explosive device hidden in an electric scooter parked at the entrance.
Reports indicate that the device detonated as Kirillov and his aide were leaving the building. Russian authorities have since initiated a criminal investigation into the blast, emphasizing ongoing security concerns in the city, which has previously experienced attacks, such as drone strikes in May 2023.
Kirillov, 54, had led the Radiological Chemical and Biological Defense Forces since 2017 and had gained prominence for frequently presenting allegations against Ukraine and its primary supporter, the United States, claiming they used chemical weapons in conflict. He also pointed to evidence suggesting the existence of a US-operated network of biolaboratories in Ukraine, which he claimed posed a significant threat to civilian safety.
Notably, Kirillov’s death occurred just one day after Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) named him a suspect in an investigation concerning Moscow’s purported use of chemical weapons against Ukrainian military forces.
Russia has consistently denied employing chemical weapons in combat, asserting that it had eliminated its stockpiles in 2017.
