Moscow burial links Russian general to Aerospace Forces chief after restaurant blast

Major General Valery Plokhotnyuk, buried Aug 5 in Moscow, is identified as a victim of the Aug 1 explosion at Balzi Rossi restaurant, reportedly a party for Alexander Chayko, commander of Russia’s Aerospace Forces. Independent outlets verified his death via state registries and noted possible ties to Chayko, including a contact calling him “Masha’s Godfather.” Chayko’s son-in-law Daniil Peredriy, also linked to the party, was confirmed dead from Aug 1 and buried Aug 6. The piece mentions earlier mixed reports about another general, with some sources suggesting a hoax. Meduza also notes its AI-assisted translation process in preparing the story.