What's happened
Lieutenant General Fanil Sarvarov, head of Russia’s military training, died from a car explosion in Moscow. Investigators suspect Ukrainian intelligence involvement, following a pattern of targeted killings of Russian military leaders since December 2024. The attack highlights ongoing tensions and covert operations amid the Ukraine conflict.
What's behind the headline?
The killing of Lt. Gen. Sarvarov underscores the escalation of covert warfare between Russia and Ukraine. The pattern of targeted assassinations indicates Ukraine's strategic use of sabotage to destabilize Russian military command. This series of attacks will likely intensify Russia’s security measures and could provoke retaliatory actions. The involvement of Ukrainian intelligence, as suspected by Russian authorities, suggests a broader cyber and covert campaign that extends beyond conventional warfare. The timing, amid ongoing conflict, signals a shift towards asymmetric tactics that could prolong hostilities and complicate diplomatic efforts. The attack also raises questions about the effectiveness of Russia’s internal security and the potential for further targeted killings of high-ranking officials, which could impact Russia’s military operations and morale.
What the papers say
The Times of Israel reports that investigators are pursuing multiple lines of inquiry, including Ukrainian involvement, with Ukrainian security claiming responsibility for similar past attacks. The Moscow Times highlights that Sarvarov is the third Russian general killed since December 2024, emphasizing a pattern of targeted assassinations linked to Ukraine. The Independent and AP News detail the specifics of the attack and the ongoing investigation, while the New York Times notes the broader context of these targeted killings and their implications for Russian military stability. All sources agree on the suspected Ukrainian role, but differ slightly in emphasis, with some focusing on the pattern of attacks and others on the security implications for Russia.
How we got here
Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Ukraine has claimed responsibility for several attacks targeting Russian military figures. Notably, in December 2024, General Igor Kirillov was killed by a bomb on an electric scooter, and in April 2025, Lt. Gen. Yaroslav Moskalik was killed by a car bomb. These incidents suggest a campaign of targeted assassinations believed to be orchestrated by Ukrainian intelligence, aiming to weaken Russia’s military leadership and morale.
Go deeper
Common question
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Who Was Lieutenant General Fanil Sarvarov and Why Was He Targeted?
The recent assassination of Lieutenant General Fanil Sarvarov in Moscow has raised many questions about the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. As investigators consider Ukrainian involvement, many wonder what this means for the future of the war and whether targeted killings are becoming more common. Below, we explore the key details and what they could signify for the broader conflict.
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Are Recent Attacks in Russia Linked to Wider Geopolitical Tensions?
Recent targeted attacks on Russian military leaders, including the killing of Lieutenant General Fanil Sarvarov in Moscow, have raised questions about their broader implications. Many experts believe these incidents are part of a pattern linked to ongoing Ukraine-Russia tensions, with Ukrainian intelligence suspected of involvement. But what do these attacks mean for global security and regional stability? Below, we explore the connections, potential impacts, and how governments are responding to these escalating threats.
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What Do Recent Assassinations Mean for Russia and Ukraine?
Recent targeted killings of Russian military officials have raised serious questions about the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. These high-profile assassinations suggest a possible escalation in covert operations and could impact the broader war dynamics. Curious about what these attacks signify and what might happen next? Below, we explore key questions surrounding these events and their implications.
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What Are the Key News Stories Today You Should Know?
Staying updated with today's top news is essential, but with so many stories unfolding worldwide, it can be hard to keep track. From geopolitical tensions to economic shifts, this page breaks down the most important headlines and answers your pressing questions. Curious about what's happening in Russia, the UK economy, or other major events? Keep reading to get the full picture and reliable updates on today's news cycle.
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Yaroslav Yaroslavovich Moskalik (Russian: Ярослав Ярославович Москалик, 22 August 1966 – 25 April 2025) was a Russian lieutenant general who served as Deputy Chief of the Main Operations Directorate of the General Staff of the
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