The death toll from an explosion at the Balzi Rossi restaurant in central Moscow has risen to five, with authorities launching a terrorism investigation into the attack.
The blast occurred during a large celebration at the upscale venue on Kudrinskaya Square, where a bomb concealed as a birthday present was remotely activated.
Russian media reported that two additional victims succumbed to their injuries in hospital, bringing the total number of fatalities to five.
Russian media reported that two additional victims succumbed to their injuries in hospital, bringing the total number of fatalities to five.
More than six other people were injured in the blast, which targeted a high-profile gathering in one of the city's most prominent districts.
The attack marks a significant escalation in violence within the Russian capital, with investigators focusing on the method used to deliver the explosive device.
The use of a remote-controlled mechanism disguised as a gift suggests a planned operation designed to maximize casualties among attendees.