Russian military intelligence deputy chief, General Vladimir Alekseyev, shot outside Moscow home

Moscow (The Uttam Hindu): A very high-profile attack has been carried out in Russia's capital Moscow, defying the security system. Deputy Chief of Russian Military Intelligence (GRU), Lieutenant General Vladimir Alekseyev, has been gunned down by an unknown attacker. Investigative Committee spokesperson Svetlana Petrenko confirmed the incident and said that General Alekseyev has been hit by several bullets and has been admitted to the hospital in critical condition. This attack on the top official of the country's intelligence agency during the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine has created a stir even in the Kremlin.

The attack took place near the apartment lift

According to preliminary reports, the attacker had conducted reconnaissance of General Alekseyev and was lying in wait near his home. The deadly attack occurred near the elevator hall or entrance of his apartment building. Sources say the attacker targeted him at close range. Some reports claim that he was shot three times in the back, while others mention six. After carrying out the attack, the attacker managed to escape from the scene. Police and forensic teams have camped at the scene and are gathering evidence. There are also some rumors that the attacker may have been a woman, but this has not yet been officially confirmed.

'Hero of Russia' and played a key role in the Wagner Rebellion

Lieutenant General Vladimir Alekseyev is considered one of the strongest pillars of Russian military intelligence. He has served as the First Deputy Head of Military Intelligence since 2011. For his services and numerous successful operations, he was awarded Russia's highest honor, the "Hero of Russia," in 2017. His importance can be gauged from the fact that when the Wagner Group rebelled in 2023, Alekseyev was the one who appealed to the Wagner fighters to end the rebellion. He has been directly involved in intelligence and special operations.

A major setback for Russia amid the war

The attack on such a high-ranking official in the heart of Moscow, amid the Ukrainian conflict, is a major setback and challenge for Russian security agencies. It is being seen as an attempt to destabilize Russian operations. No organization or individual has yet claimed responsibility. Petrenko did not specify who might be behind the attack, but Russian officials, considering it a matter of national security, have promised to hunt down the culprits, even from the depths of the earth.