Ukraine denies any involvement in the attempted assassination of Russian GRU deputy chief General Vladimir Alekseev, who was shot at in an apartment building in Moscow.
Ukrainian authorities have firmly rejected any allegations of involvement in the assassination attempt on General Vladimir Alekseev, the deputy chief of Russia's Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU). The incident occurred when Alekseev was shot multiple times in an apartment complex in northwestern Moscow, prompting immediate hospitalization. An unknown assailant fled the scene, raising questions about security for high-ranking officials in Russia during a time of heightened tension.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has accused Ukraine of orchestrating the assassination attempt, claiming that such an operation aimed to sabotage ongoing peace negotiations. However, Lavrov did not provide any evidence to support these accusations, which reflects the broader context of ongoing hostilities and the mutual blame exchanged between Ukraine and Russia since the onset of the war in 2022. The boldness of the assassination attempt underscores a significant escalation in the conflict, leading to speculation about potential retaliation.
Ukraine's Deputy Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, in an interview with Reuters, stated that Ukraine had no connection to the incident and expressed uncertainty about the true nature of the attack. This incident comes after a series of high-profile assassinations of Russian military officers attributed to Ukraine, which underscores the intensity and volatility of the ongoing conflict. The denial from Ukraine may also indicate a strategic position as they navigate international perceptions and their response to increasing accusations from Russia, especially in light of failed peace talks in the past.
