Explosion at Moscow Restaurant Leaves Several Dead, Reportedly During General's Birthday Party
An explosion at a Moscow restaurant closed for a private event killed three people and wounded many, with reports suggesting a general's birthday was being celebrated.
Russia's Interior Ministry reported that an explosion near the outdoor seating area of the Balzi Rossi restaurant in Kudrinskaya Square in central Moscow killed three people and injured 15. The Telegram channel Baza reported at least three deaths and 17 serious injuries, indicating a discrepancy in the figures.
According to Baza and Astra, the restaurant had been closed for a private event. An eyewitness told Astra that a general was celebrating his birthday there. Several vehicles with black licence plates—typically used by the armed forces and certain security agencies—were reportedly parked nearby. A National Guard bus was also seen in the vicinity. Astra noted that this information has not been independently confirmed and requires further verification.
The Ostorozhno Novosti Telegram channel reported that the blast site has been cordoned off. Security forces, including a National Guard van, have been deployed and are preventing pedestrians from approaching.
Journalist Oleg Kashin speculated that the birthday celebration may have been for Colonel General Aleksandr Chaiko, Commander-in-Chief of Russia's Aerospace Forces. This remains unconfirmed.
Investigators are working at the scene, and the cause of the explosion is still being established.
