A luxury Aurus Senat limousine, part of Vladimir Putin’s official car fleet, caught fire and exploded in Moscow, causing widespread shock just as the Russian president increases security checks amid growing fears of assassination.
The incident took place on Sretenka Street, not far from the FSB headquarters in Lubyanka, a key Russian intelligence hub.
Huge Blast Rocks Central Moscow
Footage from the scene showed thick black smoke coming from the front of the £275,000 vehicle, with the fire believed to have started in the engine and then spreading into the interior. The rear section also appeared to be damaged, according to reports.
Nearby workers from restaurants and bars rushed outside to help before firefighters arrived. Thankfully, no one inside the vehicle was injured, but officials have not revealed who was using the car at the time.
The Aurus Senat is the same model often used by Putin himself and other high-ranking Russian officials. These Russian-made cars have even been gifted by Putin to other leaders, such as North Korea’s Kim Jong Un.
Cause of Fire Still Unknown
As of now, there is no official statement about the cause of the explosion. The limousine is reportedly part of the Presidential Property Management Department, which maintains Putin’s official fleet.
The incident has raised fresh questions about security in Moscow, especially at a time when the Russian president is showing signs of increased paranoia.
Putin Orders Guards to Be Searched
Just days before the explosion, extraordinary footage from Murmansk showed Putin’s ceremonial guards being body searched by Russia’s Federal Protection Service (FSO). Officers were seen removing gun magazines and plugging chambers, reportedly out of fear that someone in the guard could pose a threat.
During the same trip, Putin boarded the nuclear submarine Arkhangelsk and gave a fiery speech, saying Russia would “finish off Ukraine” in the ongoing conflict.
Putin’s Growing Fear of Assassination
This is not the first time reports have emerged about Putin’s extreme security measures. In 2023, a former bodyguard claimed Putin even had his security team operate his washing machine, fearing spies or hidden explosives.
Earlier this week, FSO officers were seen opening sewer lids and trash bins near a venue where Putin was scheduled to speak, searching for hidden bombs.
Security experts say the Kremlin has placed Putin under unprecedented protection, with body armour, increased surveillance, and more control over public appearances.
A source close to the Kremlin said:
“The Kremlin takes Vladimir Putin’s security very seriously. He is protected by a whole army of visible and invisible guards.”