An alleged hitman has been arrested in Dubai following an assassination attempt on Lieutenant General Vladimir Alekseyev, a senior figure in Vladimir Putin‘s military command. The incident occurred when Alekseyev was shot twice in the stairway of his apartment building. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov characterized the attack as an apparent “terrorist act” orchestrated by Ukraine, aimed at undermining ongoing peace discussions.
According to reports from the business daily Kommersant, the attacker, disguised as a delivery person, shot Alekseyev in the foot and arm before he attempted to disarm the assailant. During the struggle, Alekseyev sustained another gunshot wound to the chest. After the shooting, the assailant fled the scene.
Alekseyev, who has a notable history in military operations, was born in Ukraine during the Soviet era. He has played a significant role in Russian military intelligence, particularly in operations in Syria and Ukraine. His actions have drawn international scrutiny, leading to sanctions from the United States for his involvement in the 2016 U.S. election and from both the United Kingdom and the European Union due to his alleged involvement in the 2018 poisoning of former Russian intelligence officer Sergei Skripal and his daughter with the nerve agent Novichok in Salisbury, England.
The Kremlin confirmed that Putin was briefed on the attack. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized the need for increased security measures for senior military officials amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Ukrainian authorities have yet to issue a statement regarding the incident. Lavrov’s comments suggest a strong accusation against Ukraine, framing the attack within the broader context of tensions between the two nations.
As investigations continue, the implications of this attack on military and diplomatic relations remain to be seen. The incident underscores the precarious nature of security for high-ranking officials involved in the conflict, raising questions about protective measures in volatile regions.
The situation is developing, and updates will continue to emerge as more details become available.
