Russian President Vladimir Putin has suffered a major shock. According to The Mirror report, Lieutenant General Fanil Sarvarov, head of the operational training department of Vladimir Putin’s army, died in a suspicious car bomb explosion in Moscow. This attack happened on Monday (22 December 2025). Lieutenant General Fanil Sarvarov was posted on a very important post in the Russian Armed Forces. He was the head of the Department of Operational Training, which is responsible for the army’s strategic training and war preparedness. This department is considered directly related to Russia’s war capability and defense policy, hence Sarvarov’s role was extremely sensitive and strategic.

BBC quoted Russian media as saying that the explosion took place in a car parking near an apartment building. Suspicion is being raised that Ukrainian intelligence agency is behind this attack. However, the Ukrainian government has not yet issued any statement on the matter. According to preliminary investigation, the blast occurred when the Lieutenant General was present in his car. The explosion was so powerful that he suffered multiple shrapnel injuries and his facial bones were badly damaged. Due to serious injuries, he could not be saved and he died on the spot. Russian investigative agencies have termed the incident as a suspected car bomb attack.

Why is this attack serious for Putin government?

Targeting such a senior officer of the Russian Army in the capital is being considered a major lapse on the part of the security system. Amidst the Ukraine war, this incident raises serious questions on Russia’s internal security and intelligence system. It is believed that this attack may further increase political and military pressure on President Vladimir Putin.

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