Story perspectives

Russian General Shot Outside Apartment Amid Assassination Wave

2/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

Lieutenant General Vladimir Alexeyev, deputy head of Russia's GRU military intelligence, was shot outside his Moscow apartment in an alleged assassination, with the attacker fleeing after injuring him in the back.
The incident follows a series of high-profile attacks on Russian military leaders.
Alexeyev had been sanctioned for involvement in the 2018 Salisbury poisonings and was recognized by President Vladimir Putin for his role in the Ukraine war.

History

Historical Context

The Salisbury poisonings on March 4, 2018, involved the use of a Novichok nerve agent against former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter, leading the UK to accuse Russia of attempted murder. This incident resulted in the expulsion of 153 Russian diplomats worldwide, marking a significant escalation in geopolitical tensions and setting a precedent for targeting Russian military officials amid ongoing international scrutiny.

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Story summary

Lieutenant General Vladimir Alexeyev, deputy head of Russia's GRU military intelligence, was shot outside his Moscow apartment in an alleged assassination, with the attacker fleeing after injuring him in the back.
The incident follows a series of high-profile attacks on Russian military leaders.
Alexeyev had been sanctioned for involvement in the 2018 Salisbury poisonings and was recognized by President Vladimir Putin for his role in the Ukraine war.

1 / 2