A senior Russian military general has been killed in a car bomb explosion in Moscow, investigators confirmed, in what authorities are treating as a targeted assassination that has shaken Russia’s security establishment. The blast occurred in a residential area of the capital, killing the officer instantly and damaging nearby vehicles.
Russia’s Investigative Committee said preliminary findings indicate an improvised explosive device (IED) was planted in or under the general’s car and detonated remotely as the vehicle was in motion. The identity of the general has not been officially released, but Russian media report he held a high-ranking operational role within the armed forces.
Security forces cordoned off the area for several hours as bomb disposal units and forensic teams examined the scene. CCTV footage from nearby buildings is being reviewed, and investigators are tracking the movements of the victim in the days leading up to the attack. Authorities have not ruled out terrorism, sabotage, or foreign intelligence involvement.
The killing comes amid heightened security tensions inside Russia as the war in Ukraine continues and Moscow faces increasing threats beyond the battlefield. Russian officials have repeatedly warned of covert operations aimed at senior military and government figures, accusing hostile actors of attempting to destabilize the country internally.
Kremlin-linked commentators described the bombing as a “direct challenge” to Russia’s security apparatus, with some calling for tighter internal controls and swift retaliation. The Defence Ministry has not issued a detailed statement but confirmed it is cooperating fully with investigators.
Analysts say the attack marks a rare and serious breach of security in Moscow, where senior officials are usually heavily protected. Similar incidents in recent months have raised questions about intelligence lapses and the growing reach of covert operations linked to the conflict.
As the investigation continues, authorities have urged the public to remain calm while vowing that those responsible will be identified and brought to justice. The assassination is expected to further harden Russia’s security posture and intensify scrutiny of internal threats at a time of prolonged geopolitical strain.