A tragic incident has left a two-year-old Iranian refugee boy in a coma after a brutal assault at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo International Airport. The attacker, a 31-year-old Belarusian man named Vladimir Vitkov, is now under investigation for attempted murder following the shocking violence.

Russian authorities confirmed that Vitkov, who had only just arrived in Moscow—allegedly from Cyprus or Egypt—was caught on CCTV footage pacing the airport arrivals area before launching the unprovoked attack. Without warning, he seized the toddler and slammed him headfirst onto the terminal floor. The child, who had been standing quietly near luggage, suffered grave injuries including a fractured skull and spinal damage.

At the time of the assault, the boy’s pregnant mother had stepped away briefly to retrieve a pushchair. Both had traveled a long and dangerous route from Iran, escaping through Afghanistan in search of safety.

The motive for the assault remains unclear. However, preliminary toxicology tests revealed cannabis in Vitkov’s system, and additional narcotics were reportedly found on him during arrest. Officials are considering whether drug use, psychological instability, or potential racial animosity played a role in the attack.

Bystanders Subdue Attacker Before Arrest at Moscow Airport

Witnesses rushed to restrain the suspect until police arrived. He was detained at the scene, and is now facing a criminal probe. Local media have reported that Vitkov has a daughter the same age as the boy he assaulted—a fact that has deepened public revulsion. His female travel companion, who was present during the attack, appeared visibly traumatised and is cooperating with authorities.

Ksenia Mishonova, Children’s Ombudswoman for the Moscow Region, condemned the act in powerful terms: “A drug-addled monster grabbed a toddler in the arrivals hall and threw him on the floor with all his might… All this is incredibly difficult to bear. I hope the detained monster will receive the full severity of the law. May the parents have the strength to survive this.”

During initial questioning, Vitkov made only vague statements about his past, saying, “I made mistakes like that.” The comment has added further mystery to his background and intentions.

As the boy continues to fight for his life in intensive care, the event has sparked global outrage and renewed debate over airport security protocols. With Sheremetyevo handling over 40 million travelers annually, concerns are rising about gaps in mental health assessments and drug screenings for international arrivals.

Support for the child’s family has poured in online, with many calling for justice not only for the victim but for vulnerable refugee families navigating uncertain futures in unfamiliar countries.