In a significant unfolding of events, Russia has identified three suspects in the high-profile shooting of Lt Gen Vladimir Alexeyev, a key figure in military intelligence.
The primary accused is Lyubomir Korba, a Russian citizen, who allegedly arrived in Moscow late December for a mission from Ukrainian intelligence services to carry out the attack. Ukraine has denied any involvement in the incident.
Lt Gen Alexeyev, 64, was attacked in a residential area of north-western Moscow and sustained serious injuries that necessitated surgery. Reports indicate he is now recovering and has regained consciousness.
According to the Russian Investigations Committee, Korba managed to flee to the United Arab Emirates shortly after the shooting but has since been arrested and brought back to Russia to face charges. State television has reported footage of his extradition.
The investigation revealed that Korba fired three shots before escaping, and law enforcement has identified additional accomplices, including Viktor Vasin, who has been detained, and Zinaida Serebritskaya, who allegedly fled to Ukraine.
Russian Additional investigations uncovered a Makarov pistol with a silencer at the scene of the crime. The Russians are conducting forensic tests on this weapon as part of their ongoing inquiry.
The shooting of Alexeyev adds to a troubling trend of targeted attacks on military figures in Russia amid heightened tensions following the invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
