At least three people were killed and 21 others injured following a homemade bomb explosion at a café in central Moscow, according to Russia’s National Antiterrorism Committee (NAK). The blast occurred at a restaurant located near a residential high-rise on Kudrinskaya Square, drawing a heavy response from emergency services and heavily armed police.
The Incident at Kudrinskaya Square
According to NAK, a woman attempted to smuggle the homemade explosive device into the Balzi Rossi restaurant, situated on the ground floor of the historic Stalin-era skyscraper on Kudrinskaya Square. State-run news agency TASS reported that the woman, a security guard who intercepted her, and a restaurant guest were killed in the blast. Local police stated that the 21 injured individuals sustained varying degrees of severity, requiring immediate medical attention from emergency crews stationed outside the cordoned-off area.
Did you know?
The blast site is one of Moscow’s iconic Stalin-era skyscrapers, which frequently house commercial venues and private events alongside residential apartments.
Investigation and Security Response
Local media reported that security services actively investigated the interior of the sealed building following the incident. According to the BBC, the Balzi Rossi restaurant had been hosting a private event at the time of the explosion. Video footage published by the Russian news agency RIA showed heavily armed police officers securing the perimeter, blocking public access while investigators and emergency personnel processed the scene on August 1 and into August 2, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the explosion at the Moscow café?
According to Russia’s National Antiterrorism Committee (NAK), the blast was caused by a homemade bomb that a woman attempted to smuggle into the Balzi Rossi restaurant.
How many casualties were reported?
At least three people were killed—including the suspect, a security guard, and a restaurant guest—while 21 others sustained injuries of varying severity, according to police and NAK reports.
Where did the explosion take place?
The blast occurred at a restaurant on the ground floor of a high-rise building on Kudrinskaya Square, one of Moscow’s famous Stalin-era skyscrapers.
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