Russian General Accused of Hospital Attack Shot

A Russian general accused by Ukraine of ordering a missile strike on a children's hospital has reportedly been shot in an assassination attempt in northwestern Russia. Major General Nikolai Varpakhovich, commander of the 22nd Heavy Bomber Aviation Division of Russia's Long-Range Aviation, was shot several times on Thursday, September 3, 2026, in the city of Engels, Saratov region. Russian authorities have not officially identified the serviceman targeted, but Russian Telegram channels widely reported the victim as Varpakhovich. The Russian Investigative Committee confirmed it has opened an investigation into the attempted murder. Local media reported that the general was shot in the face and torso and was subsequently flown to Moscow for treatment. His current condition is described as critical, though he reportedly survived the attack. Engels serves as a key base for Russia's strategic bomber fleet, including aircraft used to launch long-range cruise missiles against Ukraine. Varpakhovich has been accused by Ukraine of masterminding a missile strike on Kyiv's Okhmatdyt children's hospital in July 2024.