In a significant security breach within Moscow, Armen Sarkisyan, the founder of the pro-Russian Arbat battalion, was killed in a bombing at the upscale Scarlet Sails residential complex. The explosion, which occurred in the building’s lobby, also resulted in the death of one of Sarkisyan’s bodyguards and left several others injured.
Russian authorities have labeled the incident as a meticulously planned assassination. Preliminary investigations suggest that the explosive device was concealed within the lobby area and detonated remotely upon Sarkisyan’s entry. The blast caused significant structural damage, shattering windows and necessitating the evacuation of residents.
Sarkisyan, 46, was a prominent figure in the pro-Russian military efforts in eastern Ukraine. He established the Arbat battalion, known for recruiting ethnic Armenians and former convicts to fight against Ukrainian forces in the Donetsk region. Additionally, he served as the president of the boxing federation in the Russian-occupied part of Donetsk.
Ukrainian authorities have previously accused Sarkisyan of being a criminal mastermind, alleging his involvement in organizing illegal armed groups and participating in actions against pro-European protesters during the Maidan uprising in 2014. He was reportedly wanted in Ukraine for various crimes, including war crimes.
The assassination has heightened security concerns in Moscow, leading to increased vigilance and the implementation of additional protective measures across the city. While no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, the incident underscores the ongoing tensions and hostilities extending beyond the Ukrainian conflict zone.
This event marks one of the most significant security breaches in Moscow in recent years, prompting discussions about potential vulnerabilities within the city’s security apparatus. Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation, reviewing surveillance footage, and interviewing witnesses to identify the perpetrators and prevent future incidents.
