James Waterhouse, BBC Ukraine correspondent, offers firsthand insight into the assassination of Russian General Igor Kirillov and its implications for the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Chris Steele, former MI6 Russia Desk head, discusses the strategic significance of targeted killings and the ethical dilemmas posed by chemical warfare allegations. Dame Rachel de Souza emphasizes the urgent need for better child welfare oversight, advocating for new legislation to protect at-risk children. The conversation blends military strategy with pressing social issues.
The assassination of Lt Gen Igor Kirilov by Ukraine illustrates their advanced capabilities in targeted operations against Russian military leaders.
Ukraine's pursuit of justice for chemical weapon usage emphasizes their strategy to challenge international law violations and sway public sentiment against Russia.
Deep dives
Assassination of a Senior Russian General
Lieutenant General Igor Kirilov, a high-ranking Russian official overseeing biological and chemical weapons, was assassinated outside his apartment in Moscow. The Ukrainian security service claimed responsibility for the attack, which involved a scooter laden with explosives detonated remotely as Kirilov walked by. His assassination follows Ukraine's conviction of him in absentia for using chemical weapons during the ongoing conflict, underscoring the significance of this operation for Ukraine. Experts noted that successful surveillance was likely a key factor in executing such a precise attack, showcasing Ukraine's capability in state-sponsored assassinations.
Impact of Targeted Assassinations on the Russian Military
Targeted assassinations carried out by Ukraine may impact overall morale within the Russian military, following a series of successful high-profile killings. These operations send a strong message to Russian troops, raising questions about their leadership's security and competence. With numerous reports of purges and corruption within the Russian military hierarchy, coupled with significant battlefield losses, the senior leadership appears increasingly vulnerable. While these assassinations may not directly alter Russia's grip on occupied territories, they bring the war's reality closer to the Russian populace, potentially affecting public sentiment.
Chemical Weapons Allegations Against Russia
Ukraine has accused Russia of utilizing chemical weapons extensively throughout the conflict, specifically citing almost 5,000 instances of alleged use on the battlefield. Chemical agents like chloropicrin have reportedly caused significant casualties by forcing Ukrainian troops into vulnerable positions during combat. These claims are supported by various evidential materials, including incriminating videos shared by soldiers. Ukraine perceives the pursuit of justice against figures like Kirilov as essential, aiming to highlight the violations of international law and reinforce their narrative against Russian aggression.
Geopolitical Shifts and North Korean Involvement
Recent reports indicate that North Korean troops are now operating in regions of Russia, possibly in support of Russia's military efforts against Ukraine. The U.S. and Ukraine have confirmed losses of North Korean soldiers in this context, yet the scale of their involvement remains relatively minor compared to Russian casualties. This involvement illustrates the evolving geopolitical landscape, as Russia forges closer ties with nations like North Korea and Iran, challenging the traditional Western-dominated order. Concerns have been raised about the implications of North Korean soldiers being introduced to modern warfare practices, potentially altering their military capabilities.
Today, we look at the assassination of a Russian general in Moscow.
Lt Gen Igor Kirillov was at the entrance to a residential block on Tuesday morning when a device hidden in an electric scooter exploded and killed him. Ukraine has claimed responsibility for the attack. Adam is joined by James Waterhouse, BBC Ukraine Correspondent and Chris Steele - the former head of the Russia Desk at MI6, Author of “Unredacted: Russia, Trump and the Fight for Democracy” and a director of Orbis Business Intelligence.
And, Sara Sharif's father and stepmother have been sentenced to life in prison for her murder. Adam speaks to the Children's Commissioner Dame Rachel de Souza about how to keep children safe.
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Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. It was presented by Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Gemma Roper and Anna Harris. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The editor is Sam Bonham.
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