A deadly explosion outside an upscale restaurant in central Moscow has killed three people, including the suspected female bomber, and injured at least 21 others in what Russian authorities are investigating as a terrorist attack. The blast occurred on Saturday evening near the Balzi Rossi restaurant, a popular venue hosting a private event at the time.
According to Russia’s National Anti-Terrorism Committee, an unidentified woman carrying an improvised explosive device attempted to enter the restaurant but was stopped by a security guard. Moments later, the explosive detonated, killing the woman, the security guard, and one restaurant guest instantly. Emergency services rushed to the scene, while the injured were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin condemned the incident as a “brutal terrorist act” and pledged that those responsible would be identified and brought to justice. Investigators from the National Anti-Terrorism Committee and the Moscow Investigative Committee have launched a criminal probe into the bombing. So far, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack.
The restaurant had reportedly been closed to the public for a private gathering attended by high-profile guests. Some media reports have speculated that the attack may have been aimed at senior Russian military figures attending the event, but authorities have not confirmed any specific target or motive.
Security has been tightened across parts of Moscow following the explosion, with police cordoning off the area and conducting forensic examinations. Officials have urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information while the investigation continues.
The bombing is the latest in a series of high-profile security incidents in Russia since the start of the war in Ukraine. Although some online speculation has linked the attack to the conflict, Russian authorities have not presented evidence connecting the explosion to any specific organization or foreign actor. The investigation remains ongoing.