Pro-Kremlin War Correspondent Tatarsky Killed in St Petersburg Cafe Blast
Explosion Rocks St Petersburg Cafe
Russian war supporter and notorious correspondent Vladlen Tatarsky was killed in a dramatic explosion at a St Petersburg cafe on Sunday evening. The blast left 24 others injured, with six fighting for their lives in critical condition.
Suspect Detained: Darya Trepova in Custody
Russian investigators have detained a woman named Darya Trepova in connection with the deadly attack. Trepova, previously on the interior ministry’s wanted list, was arrested, confirmed the Investigative Committee.
Was It Internal Kremlin Infighting?
While Russian authorities dig into the incident, Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak has linked the blast to a ruthless “internal political fight” within Russia. In a now viral tweet, Podolyak quipped, “Spiders are eating each other in a jar,” suggesting Kremlin chaos.
Mystery Surrounds Explosive Device
Conflicting reports claim the bomb was disguised as a statue given to Tatarsky as a gift—though officials have yet to confirm this. The exact nature of the explosive remains under investigation.
Controversial Figure with Kremlin Connections
Tatarsky was no ordinary journalist. He embedded with separatist forces since 2014, gained infamy after releasing a Kremlin-inside video supporting the annexation of Ukrainian territories, and was known for both backing and critiquing Russia’s campaign in Ukraine.
Outrage and Accusations Fly
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova called Tatarsky a “dangerous” figure to Ukraine and slammed Western governments for their muted response. She claimed in Ukraine, “those who receive Western grants are in no way concealing their delight” over the attack, highlighting deep tensions.