A pro-Russian paramilitary leader from eastern Ukraine has been killed in a bombing incident that occurred in the lobby of a luxury apartment building in Moscow. The attack, which critically injured Armen Sarkisyan, took place as he and his bodyguards were entering the Scarlet Sails residential complex. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Sarkisyan succumbed to his injuries shortly after the explosion.
The blast, which also claimed the life of one of Sarkisyan’s bodyguards and injured three others, has been described by Russian media as a well-planned assassination. Footage released by investigative authorities showed the aftermath of the explosion, with shattered glass and debris strewn across the lobby. State news agency TASS reported that the bombing was meticulously orchestrated, prompting a police investigation into the individuals responsible for ordering the attack.
Sarkisyan, who had been accused by Ukraine of supporting Russia’s military efforts in the Donetsk region, was previously labeled a "crime boss" by Ukraine’s SBU intelligence agency. He was born in Armenia and had formed a pro-Russian military unit in 2022, primarily composed of local fighters, to combat Ukrainian forces. The SBU alleged that he was involved in organizing supplies for frontline units and had connections to illegal armed groups.
The incident has heightened security concerns in the upscale neighborhood, with local authorities increasing patrols and security measures around the Scarlet Sails complex. Residents expressed unease as they navigated the area, which is typically controlled with strict access protocols. Speculation has arisen regarding how the bomber managed to infiltrate the secure premises, with suggestions that the assailant may have posed as a delivery worker.
This bombing follows a series of violent incidents linked to the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, including a previous attack that resulted in the death of Russian General Igor Kirillov. As investigations continue, the Russian authorities have launched a criminal case into this latest incident, seeking to uncover the motives and masterminds behind the assassination of the controversial figure.