### Former Russian Air Operations Commander Killed in Blast, Officials Suspect Terrorism

In a startling development, a former Russian officer who led air operations during the siege of Mariupol has been killed in an overnight bomb attack, officials reported on Thursday. Major Zaur Gurtsiyev, 34, who later became the deputy mayor of Stavropol, was confirmed dead by Stavropol Mayor Ivan Ulyanchenko.

Stavropol region Governor Vladimir Vladimirov initially shared information about Gurtsiyev's death, explaining that he died in a "nighttime incident." Vladimirov highlighted the investigation's scope by stating, "All leads are being followed, including the possibility of a terrorist attack organized by Ukrainian Nazis."

Russia's Investigative Committee, responsible for probing severe crimes, disclosed that the explosion resulted in two deaths. The second victim was a 29-year-old acquaintance of Gurtsiyev, who is believed to have detonated an improvised explosive device. Authorities are investigating the incident as a potential murder and illegal weapons trafficking case, while also considering the possibility of terrorism. Alexander Bastrykin, head of Russia's Investigative Committee, has directed regional officials to provide updates on the case.

Surveillance footage circulating on Telegram channels linked to Russian law enforcement shows the moment of the explosion. One man is seen approaching another near a parking lot before the blast. These channels have identified Gurtsiyev as one of the men in the video, though official sources have yet to comment on the footage.

Gurtsiyev, born in Vladikavkaz in 1990, joined the Russian Armed Forces in 2007 and graduated from the S. M. Budyonny Military Academy of the Signal Corps in 2012. He played a key role during the siege of Mariupol, overseeing air operations that utilized "best practices in missile guidance technology," as noted by the Time of Heroes website. The siege resulted in the deaths of at least 8,000 people, according to Human Rights Watch.

Following his military career, Gurtsiyev was awarded the Order of Courage and other military honors. He transitioned into a civilian role and became Stavropol's first deputy mayor in September 2024.

As investigations continue, the death of Major Zaur Gurtsiyev highlights the ongoing volatility and tragic consequences of the conflict surrounding the invasion of Ukraine.