MOSCOW: Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) claims it disrupted Ukraine’s plot to kill a top officer and war blogger.
A Russian citizen reportedly collaborated with Ukraine’s GUR intelligence via Telegram, retrieving a bomb hidden in Moscow, FSB revealed.
Bomb Concealed in Speaker
The FSB stated the bomb, with 1.5 kg of TNT and ball bearings, was disguised as a portable music speaker.
The alleged targets, including a high-ranking officer and pro-Russian blogger, have not been publicly identified by the FSB.
Ukraine’s Targeted Killings Policy
Ukraine defends targeted killings as necessary for national security but faces accusations from Russia of conducting illegal terrorism.
Notably, Ukraine’s SBU service recently killed Lieutenant General Kirillov using a scooter bomb, escalating tensions between both nations.
Kirillov’s Role and Retaliation Threats
Kyiv accused Kirillov of promoting banned chemical weapons, which Moscow denies. Russia vows to retaliate for his assassination.
International Criticism
U.S. envoy Keith Kellogg described such targeted killings as extreme and unnecessary, urging restraint in future operations.
Rising Tensions Between Nations
These developments deepen the conflict, showcasing escalating actions from both Ukraine and Russia amid an ongoing war.