Top Russian Spy Chief Shot After Ditching Bodyguards for Secret Tryst

Lieutenant General Vladimir Alekseyev, a powerful GRU military intelligence official, was attacked by hitmen after visiting his mistress in Moscow.

Feb. 7, 2026 at 11:55am

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One of Vladimir Putin's top spymasters, Lieutenant General Vladimir Alekseyev, was shot multiple times as he left a secret meeting with his younger mistress in Moscow. Alekseyev, the deputy head of Russia's GRU military intelligence agency, had reportedly ditched his bodyguards to visit the woman at an apartment building. Investigators believe Ukrainian assassins were behind the attempted hit, which left Alekseyev fighting for his life.

Why it matters

The attack on such a high-ranking Russian intelligence official represents a significant security breach and embarrassment for the Kremlin. It also highlights the internal power struggles and infighting within Putin's inner circle, as well as the risks that Russian officials face even in the heart of Moscow.

The details

According to reports, Alekseyev arrived at the apartment building without his usual security detail and was then pounced on by a masked gunman in the stairwell. Neighbors said they frequently saw a young woman with a child at the flat, suggesting it was being used for Alekseyev's secret tryst. A suspected gunman and an accomplice have been arrested, with the pair having fled to Dubai after the attack.

  • The shooting occurred on February 7, 2026 as Alekseyev was leaving the apartment building.

The players

Vladimir Alekseyev

A 64-year-old Lieutenant General who serves as the deputy head of Russia's GRU military intelligence agency, overseeing operations in Ukraine and Syria.

Vladimir Putin

The President of Russia, who Alekseyev serves under as one of his top spymasters.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy

The President of Ukraine, whose government has been accused of orchestrating the attack on Alekseyev.

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What’s next

Russian security chiefs have ordered a major review into the attack, and investigators are still working to determine the full details of the incident.

The takeaway

The brazen attack on one of Putin's top spymasters highlights the high-stakes power struggles and security risks faced by Russian officials, even in the heart of Moscow. It also underscores the ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, as the two countries remain locked in a bitter conflict.