MOSCOW, December 18. /TASS/. The UN’s reaction to the murder of the chief of Russia’s radiation, chemical, and biological protection forces, Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov, is "evidence of venality," said Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova.

"I believe this is a clear sign of venality," the diplomat stated when asked to comment on the UN’s response by Sputnik radio. "<...> Venality is also rooted in fear. It’s about timidity. And what they said yesterday, or rather what they failed to acknowledge, what they barely uttered, is, of course, an indicator of their venality. <...> Because Igor Kirillov was recognized as a leading professional, both on international platforms and within international organizations."

Earlier, the UN refused to condemn the terrorist attack against Kirillov, merely calling for a halt to further escalation.

Kirillov and his assistant were killed when an explosive device detonated on Ryazansky Prospekt in Moscow on the morning of December 17, according to investigators. The device had been planted on a scooter positioned near the entrance to an apartment building. The Investigative Committee has launched a criminal case based on violations outlined in Articles 105, 205, and 222 of the Criminal Code—murder, terrorist act, and illegal possession of weapons and explosives. A search is underway to identify those responsible for the attack.