Russian President Vladimir Putin announced Saturday the detention of 11 individuals connected to the assault on a suburban Moscow concert hall, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 115 lives and leaving the venue in ruins.
Addressing the nation, Putin condemned the incident as a “bloody, barbaric terrorist act” and confirmed the apprehension of all four directly involved perpetrators. He suggested their attempt to flee across the Ukrainian border, insinuating Ukrainian facilitation, which Ukraine vehemently denied. Putin declared March 24 a day of national mourning and enforced heightened security measures nationwide.
The Islamic State group’s Afghanistan branch claimed responsibility for the attack, confirmed by U.S. intelligence agencies. Occurring shortly after Putin’s electoral victory and amid the ongoing Ukrainian conflict, the assault prompted immediate speculation, with some Russian lawmakers implicating Ukraine. However, Ukrainian officials rebuffed such allegations, emphasizing Ukraine’s commitment to nonviolent resolutions.
Images revealed emergency crews still at the scene of Crocus City Hall, while videos depicted gunmen targeting civilians within the venue. Reports suggested explosive devices ignited the fire, resulting in the collapse of the venue’s roof during efforts to extinguish the blaze.
The IS’s Afghanistan affiliate claimed responsibility for the attack, targeting a purported gathering of “Christians” in Krasnogorsk. While the claim’s authenticity remains unverified, U.S. intelligence had previously warned Russian officials of an impending IS attack in Moscow.
Global condemnation and support for the victims flooded in, with the U.N. Security Council denouncing the “heinous and cowardly terrorist attack” and stressing the importance of holding the perpetrators accountable.
As Russia grapples with the aftermath, hundreds lined up to donate blood and plasma, reflecting a united front against terrorism and solidarity with the victims.
Putin, amidst a contentious re-election and heightened tensions, previously dismissed Western warnings of a potential attack as intimidation tactics. The incident recalls past IS atrocities in Russia, underscoring ongoing security challenges in the region.
