Massive Explosion at Moscow Restaurant Leaves Three Dead and Fifteen Injured

A powerful explosion struck a restaurant in central Moscow on Saturday, killing three people, injuring at least fifteen others, and prompting emergency security measures.

Explosion in Central Moscow

Article updated. The explosion occurred in central Moscow at a restaurant located on Kudrin Square, according to Russian media reports on Saturday. The Ministry of Internal Affairs confirmed the fatalities, adding that 15 people were injured, while the independent portal Meduza reported a higher figure of approximately 20 injured.

Conflicting Reports on the Cause

According to The Moscow Times, conflicting information is flowing from pro-government channels, with one source citing a kitchen gas installation explosion and another citing an explosion in the guest area. Meanwhile, restaurant head chef Carmine Alfieri reportedly stated that the incident happened outside and the rest of the venue is safe, while official causes have not yet been announced by investigators and the area around the building has been cordoned off by police.

Emergency Response and Area Closures

Bomb disposal experts are working at the scene. Media report that authorities closed the road from Barrikadnaya metro station to Novinsky Boulevard and canceled the Night Cycling Festival, with organizers evacuating event participants from the Garden Ring.

High-Level Presence at the Scene

Maxim Liksutov, Deputy Mayor of Moscow, arrived at the scene.

Unofficial Claims Regarding a General’s Birthday

The portals The Moscow Times and Meduza report unconfirmed information that a “general’s birthday” may have been taking place there. Journalist Oleg Kashyn, quoted by The Moscow Times, suggests it could involve General Alexander Chaiko, who was appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Aerospace Forces by Vladimir Putin in May and turned 55 on July 27.

Military and National Guard Vehicles Spotted

A witness reportedly stated that cars with black license plates typically used in transport belonging to the armed forces or law enforcement, as well as a Rosgvardia bus, were parked in the nearby parking lot, though The Moscow Times emphasizes this is unofficial information requiring further verification.

Location of the Balzi Rossi Restaurant

The Balzi Rossi restaurant is situated on Kudrin Square on the ground floor of a socialist-realist skyscraper, located not far from the United States embassy building.