On December 17, 2024, Russian General Igor Kirillov was killed in a bombing in Moscow, marking one of the most significant assassinations during the ongoing conflict. Ukraine has claimed responsibility, highlighting its escalating covert actions.
Assassination of Russian General in Moscow Linked to Ukraine's Covert Operations
Assassination of Russian General in Moscow Linked to Ukraine's Covert Operations
The killing of General Igor Kirillov by a bomb raises tensions as Ukraine takes credit for the high-profile assassination.
In a shocking development, Russian General Igor Kirillov was killed yesterday by a bomb while on a Moscow street, an act that Ukrainian authorities have claimed as a targeted assassination. Kirillov, who was head of Russia's radioactive, chemical and biological defense forces, was reportedly killed along with an aide when an explosive device concealed in a scooter was detonated early in the morning. This incident marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict as it comes just days after Kyiv accused Kirillov of overseeing the "massive use of banned chemical weapons" against Ukraine.
The assassination of Kirillov represents one of the most audacious decapitation strikes since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion nearly three years ago. While Ukraine has previously taken credit for deadly operations against lower-ranking officials, this is the first instance of a high-ranking military figure being killed inside Russia itself. Recently, Ukrainian operatives also claimed responsibility for a car bombing that resulted in the death of a senior Russian commander in occupied Crimea.
A senior U.S. official noted that the American government was not warned about the forthcoming attack, expressing concerns that it could provoke a strong retaliatory response from President Vladimir Putin. This assassination may heighten the existing tension between Ukraine and Russia, as well as complicate the geopolitical landscape surrounding the conflict.
Additionally, reports emerged stating that North Korean forces, sent to support Russia in the conflict, have sustained their first casualties, signaling a potential shift in the dynamics of military involvement in the ongoing war. As tensions escalate, global observers will be keenly watching for Russia's response to this provocative act.
