Fri Feb 06 09:16:49 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Deputy Chief of Russian Military Intelligence Shot in Moscow

The Story:
Lieutenant General Vladimir Alekseyev, deputy chief of Russian military intelligence, was shot multiple times in Moscow on Friday, February 6, 2026. The attack occurred in a residential building on Volokolamsk Highway. The assailant fled the scene, and authorities have launched a criminal investigation into attempted murder and illegal firearms trafficking. Alekseyev, who was involved in negotiations with the late Wagner Group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, has been hospitalized.

Key Points:

  • Lieutenant General Vladimir Alekseyev, deputy chief of Russian military intelligence, was shot in Moscow.
  • The attack took place in a residential building on Volokolamsk Highway.
  • The assailant remains unidentified and at large.
  • A criminal investigation has been opened for attempted murder and illegal firearms trafficking.
  • Alekseyev previously negotiated with Yevgeny Prigozhin, the late leader of the Wagner Group.
  • Several senior Russian officers have been assassinated since the start of the war in Ukraine.

Critical Analysis:

The shooting of Lieutenant General Alekseyev follows a pattern of assassinations and attempted assassinations of high-ranking Russian military officials. Given Alekseyev’s involvement in negotiations with Prigozhin before the Wagner leader’s death, the attack raises questions about potential internal conflicts within the Russian military and intelligence apparatus. The article points out previous assassinations that Russia blames on Ukraine, and that Ukraine has taken responsibility for in some cases. But the Prigozhin connection suggests that it is prudent to consider other reasons why the officer was attacked.

Key Takeaways:

  • The attempted assassination suggests a possible escalation of violence targeting senior Russian military figures.
  • The incident raises questions about internal stability within Russia, particularly given Alekseyev’s past role in negotiating with Prigozhin.
  • The timing of the shooting, amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, suggests the possibility of external involvement or internal sabotage.

Impact Analysis:

The shooting of Lieutenant General Alekseyev has several potential long-term implications:

  • Increased Paranoia and Crackdown: The Kremlin may intensify its efforts to identify and neutralize perceived internal and external threats, potentially leading to a wider crackdown on dissent within Russia.
  • Further Instability in Military Ranks: The attack could exacerbate existing tensions within the Russian military and intelligence services, leading to further instability and potential power struggles.
  • Escalation of Conflict: The incident could be used as justification for escalating military action in Ukraine, or for carrying out retaliatory attacks against perceived Ukrainian assets.
  • Increased Scrutiny of Prigozhin Allies: Any remaining allies or sympathizers of Yevgeny Prigozhin may come under increased scrutiny from the Russian state.

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