Update: Attempted Assassination Of High-Profile Russian Military Official Brings New Suspicion
Following a thwarted assassination attempt last Friday, top military intelligence officer General Vladimir Alexeyev was shot in his Moscow apartment building. The incident led to his immediate hospitalization where he underwent a successful surgery and regained consciousness on Saturday. Despite these positive developments, the investigation into the attempted murder remains active.
Russian authorities have not confirmed whether two suspects arrested earlier this week will be interrogated or detained. Kommersant, citing an unnamed source close to the probe, reported that interrogation is imminent and if cleared after questioning, they will face charges. However, Russia has thus far declined to comment on their detention status or provide any formal updates.
The investigation into Alexeyev’s assassination continues, with Russian authorities stating they believe it was carried out by a single gunman who fired several shots before fleeing the scene. Sergei Lavrov, Russia’s Foreign Minister, accused Ukraine of involvement in an attempt he claims would undermine peace negotiations. In response, Ukraine categorically denied any connection to the shooting.
Alexeyev, 64 years old and deputy head of Russia’s GRU (military intelligence), was placed under sanctions by both the US and EU for his alleged role in cyber interference during the 2016 US election as well as the poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter. The latter incident occurred in Salisbury, England, in 2018.
As investigators continue their inquiry, public focus remains on uncovering the motive behind this assassination attempt—a move intended to sabotage ongoing diplomatic efforts towards peace in Ukraine.