A dramatic fire engulfed an official Russian state vehicle — believed to be part of President Vladimir Putin’s motorcade — after a mysterious explosion in central Moscow on Friday, 29 March. The incident took place near the Lubyanka district, just north of the headquarters of the Federal Security Service (FSB).
Explosion Rocks Central Moscow
The vehicle involved, an Aurus limousine, is one of the Russian-made luxury cars frequently used by President Putin.
The Aurus is a symbol of Russia’s domestic automotive pride and is often associated with the President himself. Notably, Putin has gifted these vehicles to several world leaders, including North Korea’s Kim Jong Un.
Eyewitnesses described the vehicle bursting into flames shortly after an audible blast was heard from the engine compartment. The fire rapidly consumed the front of the limousine, sending thick black smoke billowing across the street.
Local workers from nearby restaurants and cafés reportedly ran towards the scene to offer assistance. Emergency services arrived swiftly and managed to bring the blaze under control. Authorities have confirmed that no one was injured in the incident.
Limousine de Putin explode em Moscow pic.twitter.com/HQFOL2hDVQ
— Desiree Rugani (@desireerugani) March 30, 2025
Cause of Blast Still Unknown
Authorities have yet to determine the exact cause of the explosion that engulfed the presidential Aurus limousine. Initial assessments by emergency services suggest the fire originated in the engine bay, but the rapid spread of the flames and the audible detonation before the blaze have raised serious questions.
Experts have not ruled out the possibility of foul play. The explosion occurred in a heavily secured area near the FSB headquarters, which is under constant surveillance and patrolled frequently. This proximity has led to growing suspicion that the incident may not have been a routine technical failure.
Russian media outlets have reported that forensic specialists from the Investigative Committee have been deployed to examine the vehicle’s remains.
CCTV footage from nearby government buildings and traffic cameras is also being reviewed to identify any suspicious activity in the lead-up to the blast.
Despite the Kremlin’s insistence on downplaying the incident, some independent analysts believe the explosion could be a warning signal — either from internal dissenters or foreign intelligence actors — as tensions continue to escalate over the ongoing war in Ukraine and mounting domestic pressure on Putin’s administration.
The Russian government has yet to issue an official statement detailing the nature of the explosion, leaving room for speculation and heightened anxiety both within the Kremlin and among the general public.
Heightened Fears for Putin’s Security
This latest incident adds to growing concerns over President Putin’s personal safety. Sources close to the Kremlin suggest that Russia’s special services, including the Federal Protective Service (FSO), have elevated their security protocols to unprecedented levels.
Just last week, FSO personnel were seen inspecting manholes, drainage systems and bins near a Moscow venue ahead of a speech by Putin. These extreme precautions signal heightened fear of potential threats as Russia’s conflict with Ukraine continues into its third year.
Putin has long been known for his obsession with personal safety, often travelling with an extensive security convoy and reportedly using body doubles during public appearances.
Past Assassination Attempts on Vladimir Putin
President Putin has survived multiple alleged assassination attempts throughout his tenure. Here is a timeline of the most notable incidents:
| Date | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 2000 | Moscow, Russia | Russian media reported an attempt involving explosives near Putin’s route. |
| 2002 | Baku, Azerbaijan | A plot to kill Putin during his visit was foiled by Azerbaijani security services. |
| 2003 | Tbilisi, Georgia | Georgian authorities arrested individuals planning to assassinate Putin. |
| 2012 | Ukraine (Odessa) | Ukrainian security forces foiled a Chechen-led plot allegedly aimed at Putin. |
| 2017 | Moscow, Russia | Russian authorities claimed to have dismantled a terrorist cell plotting to assassinate Putin. |
| 2022 | Moscow, Russia (Unconfirmed) | Ukrainian intelligence alleged that a high-ranking official attempted to assassinate Putin amid tensions from the Ukraine war. |
| 2023 | Moscow, Russia (Unverified) | Reports surfaced of an explosion targeting Putin’s convoy; the Kremlin denied the claims. |
Public Reaction and Political Implications
The explosion has reignited discussions among analysts and the international community regarding internal dissent, the reliability of Putin’s security apparatus, and the increasing isolation of the Russian President.
While officials remain tight-lipped, many view the incident as symbolic of the instability within Russia’s inner power structure, especially as international sanctions, military strain, and political unrest continue to mount. Further updates are expected as the investigation unfolds.
