Death toll from Moscow restaurant blast climbs to five

A deadly explosion rocked a Moscow restaurant on August 1, claiming five lives and leaving at least six others in serious condition. The incident initially appeared to be caused by a gas leak, but subsequently, the Russian National Anti-Terrorism Committee identified the blast as an improvised explosive device (IED) detonation near the restaurant's entrance.

Preliminary reports suggested that the target of the attack may have been Alexander Chayko, commander-in-chief of Russia's Aerospace Forces. Chayko is currently being tried in absentia in Ukraine for war crimes, including those committed in Bucha and Kyiv Oblast. The explosion took place at the Balzi Rossi restaurant on Kudrinskaya Square in central Moscow, located close to an apartment building that later caught fire.

The bomb, packed with metal ball bearings, was remotely detonated. Security at the venue was reportedly heightened due to a private party being held at the location. Initially, three fatalities were confirmed: the woman who carried the bomb, a security guard who blocked her entry, and another restaurant patron. At least 21 people sustained injuries in the blast.

A woman carrying the explosive device was believed to be unaware of its contents. Chayko's fate remains uncertain, with conflicting reports. While the Telegram channel Novaya Ploshchad claims he is alive, citing his reported receipt of a Telegram message, the incident's true impact on Chayko is still unclear.