Bomb Attack at Moscow Restaurant Kills Three, Leaves More Than 20 Injured

At least three people, including a woman believed to have been carrying an improvised explosive device, were killed and no fewer than 21 others injured after a powerful explosion struck an upscale restaurant in central Moscow on Saturday evening, prompting a major anti-terrorism investigation by Russian authorities.

The blast occurred near the Balzi Rossi Italian restaurant on Kudrinskaya Square, one of Moscow’s landmark districts. According to Russia’s National Anti-Terrorism Committee, the unidentified woman attempted to enter the restaurant carrying what investigators later identified as a homemade explosive device. A security guard reportedly stopped her at the entrance for inspection, moments before the bomb detonated. The explosion killed the woman, the security guard, and a restaurant guest, while at least 21 other people sustained injuries of varying severity.

Emergency crews, firefighters and heavily armed security personnel quickly surrounded the area, evacuating nearby buildings and transporting the wounded to hospitals. Images from the scene showed shattered glass, damaged vehicles and debris scattered across the entrance to the restaurant as investigators began collecting evidence.

Initial reports indicate the restaurant had been closed to the general public and was hosting a private event when the explosion occurred. Russian media reported that the intended targets may have been guests gathered on the restaurant’s outdoor terrace. Some local reports suggested the explosive device may have been detonated remotely, raising the possibility that the woman carrying it may not have known it contained a bomb. However, investigators have not officially confirmed that theory.

Authorities have not publicly identified the victims or named any suspects responsible for planning the attack. Russia’s Investigative Committee has opened a criminal investigation, while bomb disposal experts and forensic specialists continue examining the scene to determine the origin of the device, how it was assembled and whether others were involved.

The bombing comes amid heightened security concerns in Russia following a series of attacks and assassination attempts linked to the country’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Although no group has claimed responsibility for Saturday’s explosion, security agencies have increased protective measures around high-profile officials and sensitive locations in recent months. Officials have cautioned against speculation until the investigation is completed.

The area around Kudrinskaya Square remained sealed off for several hours as investigators searched for evidence and interviewed witnesses. Authorities are expected to release further details once forensic examinations and security reviews are completed.