Armen Sarkisyan, the founder of the pro-Russian separatist Arbat Battalion, succumbed to injuries sustained in an explosion on Monday. The incident occurred as Sarkisyan was leaving the Aliye Parusa residential complex in northwest Moscow. Sarkisyan, an ally of former Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych, was wanted in Ukraine for his alleged involvement in violent responses to protests against Yanukovych. The Russian Investigative Committee has confirmed his death, while Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov indicated that special services are actively investigating the incident.
Sarkisyan was a prominent figure known for his leadership of the Arbat Battalion, which played a significant role in key battles throughout the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine. Authorities in Kyiv described him as a "criminal mastermind," noting his long-standing influence in the region's separatist movements. The battalion, founded in 2022, consisted "almost entirely" of former Wagner personnel, according to the Institute for the Study of War. This move was reportedly intended to counterbalance the influence of Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin.
The explosion that led to Sarkisyan's demise took place as he departed from a high-profile residential area in Moscow. Despite efforts to save him, Sarkisyan died at a Moscow hospital later that day.
"Despite the assistance provided, one of the victims died in a medical facility." – Russian Investigative Committee
Sarkisyan, also known by the nickname "Armen Gorlovsky," after Horlivka (Gorlovka in Russian), held a reputation within both Russia and Ukraine. His association with Yanukovych, Ukraine’s ousted Russian-leaning president, further underscored his controversial standing. In November 2022, Sarkisyan managed prison operations across Russia and occupied territories of Ukraine.
The Ukrainian Defense Intelligence highlighted Sarkisyan's criminal activities, asserting his role as a significant force behind separatist actions in Ukraine. His battalion's composition and strategic objectives reflected broader geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine.
"The special services are doing their job. It is difficult work. The information is being clarified, and work is ongoing, so it is impossible for us to comment on anything at this time." – Dmitry Peskov
