Russian senior official blames Ukraine for death of General Kirillov in Moscow explosion

Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of Russia, has accused Ukraine of being responsible for the death of Lieutenant-General Igor Kirillov, head of the Nuclear, Biological, Chemical Defence Forces (NBC).

Medvedev declared that Ukraine would be held accountable for the general's death, which he described as part of a broader attempt to intimidate the Russian people and halt the progress of the Russian military in Ukraine, Caliber.Az reports citing Russian media.

Medvedev dismissed the attack as a last-ditch effort by what he called the "Bandera regime" to justify its existence to its Western allies, extend the war, and cover up the dire situation on the frontlines.

General Kirillov was killed in an explosion on Ryazansky Avenue in Moscow. Medvedev described him as a true patriot, loyal to his duty and country. "He was a reliable and decent man," Medvedev said, expressing condolences to Kirillov’s colleagues, family, and friends, while wishing them strength during this difficult time.

The Russian government has not provided further details on the circumstances surrounding the explosion, and the identity of those responsible remains unclear.

Lt Gen Kirillov was leaving a residential block early on December 17 when a device hidden in a scooter exploded. The device was detonated remotely which also killed Kirillov’s assistant.

By Vafa Guliyeva