Shocking video: Toddler left in coma after airport assault in Russia

A toddler has been left in a coma after a shocking incident at a Russian airport, where a man violently slammed the 18-month-old to the ground while the child's mother collected a stroller.

The disturbing attack took place shortly after the mother and child arrived in Russia. The child suffered skull fractures and spinal injuries and remains in a coma in critical condition.

CCTV footage, which has circulated online, shows the suspect approaching the child, who was standing next to a small suitcase, before lifting and forcefully throwing him to the ground. The footage also appears to show the man glancing around before the assault.

Russian media identified the suspect had also recently arrived in the country. Authorities are investigating the possibility of drug use, as well as whether the assault was motivated by racial or other factors.

The child’s pregnant mother had reportedly stepped away briefly to retrieve a stroller after their flight. Some local reports said the family had fled Iran after the conflict with 'Israel' broke out and arrived in Russia via a difficult route, though this has not been officially confirmed.

Russian authorities have yet to release a formal statement regarding potential charges against the suspect.