The head of the Radiation, Chemical, and Biological Defense Forces of the Armed Forces of Russia, Igor Kirillov, was killed as a result of a special operation by the Security Service of Ukraine. This has been reported by news agencies citing a source in the SBU.
On Tuesday, an explosive device planted in a scooter was detonated on Ryazansky Prospekt in Moscow. Kirillov's assistant was also killed alongside him.
Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of the Russian Federation: "He was a military leader, devoted to his duty and oath. It is clear to everyone what happened, what occurred, and what needs to be done. Despite the fact that the investigation has only just begun, our enemies have already rushed to publish information about their involvement."
The day before the incident, the Security Service of Ukraine voiced suspicions against Kirillov, whom they consider responsible for the use of prohibited chemical weapons against Ukrainian servicemen.
Lieutenant General Kirillov was under sanctions from several countries, including the United Kingdom and Canada. The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Keir Starmer, confirmed his readiness to support Ukraine in response to a question about the general's assassination.
Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom: "This is an act of aggression from Russia that has been ongoing for a very, very long time. Therefore, we must support Ukraine during this critical period."
Igor Kirillov has become the highest-ranking military official killed behind the lines during the war.