Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) has arrested a suspect believed to be behind the shocking terrorist attack that killed a high-ranking Russian military official.
The suspect, a 29-year-old citizen of Uzbekistan, was detained after a joint operation by the FSB, the Interior Ministry, and the Investigative Committee.
The arrest follows the deadly explosion on Ryazansky Avenue in Moscow, where a device hidden in an electric scooter was detonated near a residential building.
The attack claimed the life of Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov, the head of Russia’s Radiation, Chemical, and Biological Protection Troops, and his assistant, Major Polikarpov.
Officials have described the incident as a calculated act of terror orchestrated by foreign forces.
According to the FSB, the suspect was recruited by Ukrainian special services.
“He was promised a reward of $100,000 and a chance to relocate to a European Union country,” the agency disclosed in an official statement.
Investigators revealed that the Uzbek citizen was born in 1995 and was trained to carry out the deadly mission.
“This individual detonated a homemade explosive device that tragically ended the lives of two Russian military officers,” the press office added.
The attack was a direct blow to Russia’s military leadership, with General Kirillov playing a key role in overseeing critical chemical and biological defense operations.
The FSB has pointed fingers at Ukraine’s special services for orchestrating the attack, calling it “an act of international terrorism.”
The agency has vowed to pursue those behind the recruitment and financing of the suspect.
“This is an unforgivable act that will not go unanswered,” a senior FSB official declared.
Residents of Ryazansky Avenue are still reeling from the blast.
“I heard a loud explosion and ran outside,” said Ivan Petrov, a local resident.
“There was chaos everywhere. It’s terrifying to think this happened right near our homes.”
Another witness described seeing the mangled remains of the electric scooter.
“It was clear something terrible had been planned,” she said, visibly shaken.
The assassination of a top military official has sent shockwaves through Russia’s defense establishment.
Experts say the attack underscores the growing use of unconventional methods by foreign adversaries.
“This incident marks a dangerous escalation,” said military analyst Dmitry Orlov.
“Targeting senior officials with explosives in civilian areas is a new and alarming tactic.”
The Kremlin has promised swift action to ensure such attacks do not occur again.
“General Kirillov was a patriot and a protector,” a Defense Ministry spokesperson said.
“He will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to his country.”
Major Polikarpov, who also died in the attack, was a respected officer known for his loyalty and courage.
