Explosions strike Moscow site amid wave of targeted killings

Wednesday 24 December 2025 - 08:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Explosions strike Moscow site amid wave of targeted killings

Fresh explosions shook a southern Moscow neighborhood on Wednesday at the same location where Russian Lieutenant General Fanil Sarvarov was assassinated two days earlier. Local media reported multiple blasts and significant property damage, intensifying fears of renewed attacks within the capital.

Sarvarov, who led the Russian General Staff’s army operational training division, was fatally wounded on Monday when a bomb planted beneath his vehicle exploded shortly after he left his residence in the Yasenevo district. The blast destroyed several nearby cars, and the general succumbed to severe injuries shortly afterward. Authorities opened a murder investigation and stated that foreign intelligence involvement is being considered as a possible motive.

Kremlin officials confirmed that President Vladimir Putin was informed immediately following the attack. Though Moscow has not officially linked the crime to Ukraine, Russian investigators are examining potential connections to Kyiv’s intelligence apparatus. Ukraine has declined to issue any statement regarding the incident.

The latest attack extends a disturbing series of assassinations targeting high-level military personnel within Moscow. In December 2024, Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov was killed when a concealed explosive device detonated on his electric scooter near his home. Months later, in April, Lieutenant General Yaroslav Moskalik died in a vehicle explosion outside the city, under similar circumstances.

These successive attacks coincide with ongoing diplomatic efforts between Russian and Ukrainian representatives, who recently met U.S. officials in Miami for renewed peace negotiations. Despite limited progress, both sides remain entrenched on critical issues involving territory and security guarantees. Analysts suggest the timing of these assassinations could complicate future dialogue and deepen mistrust between the two nations.