Moscow, Dec. 22 -- A senior Russian military officer was killed in a car bomb explosion in Moscow on Monday, with investigators confirming that the blast was caused by an explosive device planted beneath the vehicle, RT reported.

According to Russia's Investigative Committee, the explosion took place earlier in the day in the southern part of the city, damaging several vehicles in the area.

Initial media reports said the driver was seriously injured, before officials later identified the victim as Lieutenant General Fanil Sarvarov, head of operational training at the General Staff.

Investigators said the explosive device had been deliberately placed under the car, indicating a targeted attack.

In this context, Russian authorities said...