Story perspectives

GRU General Targeted in Moscow Shooting After Peace Talks

2/7/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The shooting targeted Lieutenant General Vladimir Alekseyev, deputy head of Russia's GRU, in Moscow.
Authorities opened a criminal investigation.
The attack occurred shortly after trilateral peace talks involving Russia, Ukraine, and the United States.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said intelligence services are investigating the incident.
Alekseyev faced past accusations of war crimes linked to controversial operations, including the Salisbury poisoning.

History

Historical Context

The 2018 Salisbury poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia, attributed to Russian operatives using the Novichok nerve agent, escalated tensions between the UK and Russia. Following the attack, the UK expelled 23 Russian diplomats, supported by the US and EU, highlighting ongoing geopolitical strife. The recent shooting of Lieutenant General Vladimir Alekseyev further complicates peace efforts involving Russia, Ukraine, and the US.

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Story summary

The shooting targeted Lieutenant General Vladimir Alekseyev, deputy head of Russia's GRU, in Moscow.
Authorities opened a criminal investigation.
The attack occurred shortly after trilateral peace talks involving Russia, Ukraine, and the United States.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said intelligence services are investigating the incident.
Alekseyev faced past accusations of war crimes linked to controversial operations, including the Salisbury poisoning.

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