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Russian authorities have opened a criminal investigation into an assassination attempt on Deputy Defense Minister General Vladimir Alekseyev after he was shot by an unidentified assailant in Moscow. The Russian Deputy Defense Minister shooting occurred at a residential building on Volokolamsk Highway, prompting immediate response from law enforcement and investigative teams.
Svetlana Petrenko, spokesperson for the Russian Investigative Committee, confirmed in an official statement that an unknown individual fired several shots at the general inside the residential building before fleeing the scene. According to Petrenko, Alekseyev was injured in the attack and subsequently transported to a Moscow hospital for medical treatment.
Investigation Into Russian Deputy Defense Minister Shooting Underway
Investigators and forensic experts continue working at the crime scene as part of comprehensive efforts to identify those responsible for the attack. The committee stated that authorities are examining surveillance camera footage and interviewing eyewitnesses to piece together details of the incident.
The criminal case has been opened under articles related to attempted murder and illegal trafficking of firearms, according to the Investigative Committee spokesperson. These serious charges reflect the gravity of the assault on a high-ranking military official in the Russian capital.
High-Ranking Military Official Targeted
General Alekseyev serves as First Deputy Chief of the Main Directorate of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, a significant position within Russia’s military hierarchy. His distinguished career includes receiving the “Hero of Russia” award in 2017, one of the highest honors bestowed by the Russian Federation.
The attack on such a prominent military figure has drawn attention from the highest levels of Russian government. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that President Vladimir Putin is receiving regular reports on developments in the investigation.
Security Services Monitoring Case Developments
According to Peskov, Russian intelligence agencies are closely following the case as investigators work to establish the circumstances and motives behind the assassination attempt. The involvement of security services underscores the sensitive nature of the incident given Alekseyev’s senior position within the defense ministry.
However, authorities have not yet released information regarding potential suspects or confirmed whether the attack was politically motivated or related to Alekseyev’s military duties. The investigation remains in its early stages as forensic teams gather evidence from the scene.
Meanwhile, the incident has raised questions about security protocols for high-ranking Russian military officials in civilian settings. The shooting took place in a residential area rather than a military facility, suggesting the assailant may have tracked the general’s movements.
Additionally, the fact that the perpetrator managed to flee the scene despite the prominent nature of the target indicates a degree of planning and preparation. Investigators are working to determine whether the shooter acted alone or as part of a coordinated effort.
In contrast to some previous attacks on Russian officials, authorities have not immediately attributed the assassination attempt to any particular group or foreign entity. The investigation appears focused on gathering concrete evidence before drawing conclusions about responsibility.
Authorities have not disclosed the extent of General Alekseyev’s injuries or provided a timeline for his expected recovery. The Investigative Committee and intelligence services are expected to continue their work identifying and apprehending those responsible for the Russian Deputy Defense Minister shooting, though no arrests have been announced at this time.
