A bomb concealed as a gift exploded at a private banquet in Moscow, killing three people and wounding at least 21, according to Russian officials. The blast occurred at the upscale Italian restaurant Balzi Rossi on Kudrinskaya Square, where a female courier attempted to deliver the device. Security personnel refused her entry, but the bomb was detonated remotely before she could leave the vicinity.
Details of the attack
The Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs confirmed that the explosive device contained metal pellets, designed to maximize casualties. The courier, a security guard, and one guest died at the scene. The National Anti-Terrorism Committee reported that at least 21 people were injured, with many hospitalized in critical condition.
Russian state media, citing Ria Novosti, said the woman presented the device as a 'gift' for the event. Kommersant daily suggested that the courier may have been unaware of the bomb's contents, as it was detonated remotely by an unknown party. No group has claimed responsibility so far.
Possible target: General Alexander Chaika
The restaurant was reportedly booked for the 55th birthday of Colonel General Alexander Chaika, the newly appointed commander of the Russian Aerospace Forces. Chaika, who was not injured in the blast, has been sanctioned by the European Union for his role in commanding Russian forces around Kyiv during the Bucha massacre, where over 400 Ukrainian civilians were killed. According to the Associated Press, Chaika personally ordered and signed 'clearing' missions that led to many of the war crimes documented in Bucha.
Russian bloggers have pointed fingers at Kyiv, but Ukrainian officials have not claimed responsibility. The attack comes amid heightened tensions following recent Ukrainian strikes on Russian soil, though no direct link has been established.
Official response
Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin called the attack a 'brutal terrorist act' in a social media post on Sunday. 'The victims are currently in the city's hospitals, where they are receiving all necessary care,' he wrote. He added that a probe is underway and promised that 'those responsible will certainly be found and will face the punishment they deserve.'
The Russian National Anti-Terrorism Committee has launched an investigation, but no further details have been released. The attack has raised concerns about security at high-profile events in the Russian capital, especially those attended by military leaders.
Broader context
The explosion occurred just days after a reported Ukrainian drone strike on a Russian airbase, and as Russia continues its military campaign in Ukraine. The targeting of a senior military figure would mark a significant escalation in covert operations, though verification is pending. Western intelligence agencies have not commented on the incident.
Balzi Rossi, known for its affluent clientele, remains cordoned off as investigators comb the scene for evidence. The restaurant's management has not issued a statement. The attack underscores the volatile security environment in Moscow, where recent months have seen several drone strikes and sabotage attempts attributed to Ukrainian forces.
As the investigation unfolds, the international community watches closely. The incident could further strain Russia-Ukraine relations and prompt retaliatory measures. For now, the focus remains on the victims and the hunt for those who orchestrated this deadly bombing.
