Device Against Moscow Restaurant Kills 3, Injures 15; General Reportedly Present

An explosion near an outdoor bar in Kudrinskaya Square, central Moscow, killed three people and injured at least 15 on Saturday evening. The National Antiterrorism Committee, cited by Ria Novosti and Tass, stated that the blast was caused by an "improvised device." According to Tass, an unidentified woman attempted to bring explosives into the venue but was denied entry by a security guard. Both the woman and another patron were killed in the ensuing explosion.

Independent Russian media, including Novaya Gazeta, reported that the Balzi Rossi restaurant, where the explosion occurred, was closed for a private banquet. Several Russian Telegram channels, also cited by Reuters, suggested that the event was a party for a general, with numerous cars bearing black license plates, typically used by military personnel, parked nearby. Some reports even mentioned the presence of Russian Air Force commander Alexander Chaiko, who assumed his post about six weeks prior, though this remains unconfirmed by officials.

The Moscow branch of the Russian Interior Ministry's General Directorate confirmed that officers were working at the scene. Their press office stated that around 8:10 p.m., an explosion occurred near the outdoor bar, causing three deaths and 15 injuries of varying severity, without specifying the cause. Interfax reported that the injured were receiving necessary medical care, according to Alexei Kuznetsov, an aide to the Ministry of Health.

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The victims of the Moscow restaurant explosion are receiving all the necessary medical care.