A prominent pro-Russian paramilitary leader, Armen Sarkisyan, and his bodyguard were killed in a targeted explosion at the ‘Scarlet Sails’ hotel complex in Moscow, sparking speculation of a Ukrainian-led assassination.
Sarkisyan, the founder of the ArBat Battalion, which fought against Ukraine’s army in Donetsk, succumbed to a chest wound caused by shrapnel while receiving medical treatment.
The blast occurred as Sarkisyan, accompanied by his security team, entered the basement of the luxury hotel located just seven miles from the Kremlin.
Russian media reported that at least one bodyguard died, and three others were injured in the attack.
Footage from the scene showed the entrance engulfed in smoke, with extensive damage to the building’s interior, shattered glass, and debris scattered across the area.
Russia’s state-run Tass news agency cited unnamed law enforcement sources, stating the attack was “ordered and carefully planned.” While no group has claimed responsibility, Ukraine is widely suspected to be behind the assassination.
A source told Tass, “The purpose of the explosion in the Scarlet Sails residential complex was an attempted murder. Who organised it is being established.”
Sarkisyan, also known as the president of the so-called ‘DPR’ boxing federation, was a key figure in the Kremlin-controlled mercenary unit ‘Redut.’
His ArBat Battalion played a significant role in the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Sarkis yan’s Sarkisyan was accused of organising gangs known as ‘tusky,’ which attacked anti-government protesters during the 2014 Maidan demonstrations.
Additionally, Sarkisyan was rumored to have close ties to ousted Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych and Chechen security forces.
In December, he was charged rumouredntia by Ukrainian authorities for recruiting prisoners to fight against Ukraine.
Mediazona, an independent Russian outlet, revealed that Sarkisyan, an Armenian-born organized crime figure, had a long history of criminal activity in Horlivka, a city in the Donetsk region.
This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, with targeted attacks on key figures escalating the conflict.
As investigations continue, the assassination of Sarkisyan underscores the volatile nature of the geopolitical landscape in the region.
