Putin blames Ukraine for terror attack, vows retribution

Russian President Vladimir Putin has pledged to hold all those accountable for the heinous attack at Crocus City Hall in northern Krasnogorsk, Moscow, where over 100 individuals lost their lives on Friday evening.

Addressing the nation regarding the concert hall assault, which left around 140 people critically wounded, Putin condemned the act as a “bloody, barbaric terrorist act” that claimed the lives of numerous innocent civilians, including children, teenagers, and women.

Despite the Islamic State claiming responsibility, Putin revealed that the assailants were apprehended while attempting to cross into Ukraine.

“I am addressing you in connection with the bloody, barbaric terrorist act, the victims of which were dozens of peaceful, innocent people – our compatriots, including children, teenagers, and women,” Putin stated.

Following his recent reelection for another six-year term, Putin commended medical personnel, special forces, and civilians for their swift response and assistance during the crisis.

He expressed gratitude to the emergency responders and ordinary citizens who rendered aid to the victims in the immediate aftermath of the tragedy.

“I express my deep, sincere condolences to all those who lost their loved ones. The whole country and our entire people are grieving with you. I declare March 24 a day of national mourning,” Putin announced.

Putin also outlined measures to prevent future attacks in Moscow and its surroundings, emphasizing the need to thwart further bloodshed.

The president confirmed the detention of the four direct perpetrators of the terrorist attack and vowed to identify and punish all those involved in orchestrating the atrocity.

“It is already obvious that we are faced not just with a carefully and cynically planned terrorist attack, but with the organized mass murder of peaceful, defenseless people,” Putin remarked.

He underscored the importance of international cooperation in combating terrorism, asserting that those responsible for such heinous acts would face justice.

“Our common duty now, our comrades–in-arms at the front, all citizens of the country, is to be together in one formation,” Putin declared, affirming the resilience of the Russian people in the face of adversity.