In a shocking and devastating act of violence, Moscow was struck by a terror attack that claimed the lives of 133 innocent people, with at least 107 others sustaining severe injuries. The incident occurred during a concert at a local hall, where four gunmen opened fire, indiscriminately targeting concertgoers. The terrorist group ISIS swiftly claimed responsibility for this heinous act, sending shockwaves throughout Russia and the international community.
Russian authorities took immediate action, apprehending four suspects believed to be responsible for the attack. Additionally, President Vladimir Putin revealed that a total of 11 individuals had been detained, including the four gunmen. Putin indicated that the attackers had attempted to flee towards Ukraine, suggesting the presence of a potential escape route prepared for them on the Ukrainian side of the border.
The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) disclosed that the gunmen had established connections within Ukraine and were apprehended near the border. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy dismissed these allegations, condemning Putin’s attempt to shift blame and referring to him and other individuals as “thugs.” Ukrainian military intelligence spokesperson Andriy Yusov categorically denied any involvement by Ukraine, asserting that their country had been engaged in defending itself against Russian aggression and targeting the occupiers’ army, not civilians.
In response to the tragedy, President Putin vowed to bring all those responsible for the attack to justice. He expressed his determination to identify and punish both the perpetrators and organizers, emphasizing that this act of terror was an attack on Russia and its people. Putin’s resolute stance conveyed a message of unity and determination to combat terrorism.
The United States government, through the White House, extended its condolences to Russia and offered assistance in the aftermath of the attack. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre issued a statement strongly condemning the terrorist act and reaffirming the shared commitment to defeating ISIS, a common enemy that poses a threat to global security. The United States had reportedly shared intelligence with Russia regarding a planned attack in Moscow, and the US National Security Council spokesperson clarified that no Ukrainian involvement was detected.
Details emerged regarding the horrific incident, painting a grim picture of the indiscriminate violence unleashed upon innocent concertgoers. Some victims succumbed to gunshot wounds, while others tragically perished in a massive fire ignited by the gunmen using petrol to set the concert hall ablaze. The grim discovery of 28 bodies in a toilet and 14 on a staircase underscored the chaos and panic that unfolded during the attack. Heartbreaking scenes of mothers clutching their children were witnessed, leaving a lasting impact on Russia and its people.
Russian lawmaker Alexander Khinshtein provided additional information on the attackers’ escape, stating that they fled in a Renault vehicle. Law enforcement authorities spotted the vehicle in the Bryansk region, approximately 340 km (210 miles) southwest of Moscow. After the suspects ignored orders to stop, a car chase ensued, resulting in their subsequent arrest. The police discovered a pistol, an assault rifle magazine, and passports from Tajikistan inside the car.
A video released by TV editor Simonyan showcased the interrogation of one of the suspects, a young bearded man. In the video, he admitted to flying from Turkey on March 4 and claimed to have received instructions via Telegram from unknown individuals who promised monetary compensation in exchange for carrying out the attack.
Meanwhile, ISIS claimed responsibility for the attack, boasting about the destruction caused and asserting that their fighters had successfully retreated to their bases unharmed. US officials confirmed that the Joe Biden administration had no reason to doubt ISIS’s claim of responsibility, reinforcing the need for a collective effort to combat the terrorist organization.
The Moscow terror attack has left a scar on the nation, with the loss of innocent lives devastating families and communities. As the investigation continues to unfold, Russia remains resolute in its determination to bring those responsible to justice and prevent future acts of terror. The international community stands in solidarity with Russia, vowing to join forces in the fight against terrorism, particularly against ISIS, a common enemy that threatens peace and security worldwide.
