Recent Updates on Moscow Terror Attack
- The death toll in the Crocus City Hall terror attack in Moscow rises to 133, with 107 people hospitalized.
- Russian President Vladimir Putin claims Ukraine’s involvement in the attack, stating that suspects were caught heading for Ukraine, but Kyiv denies any connection.
- Islamic State claims responsibility for the attack, but Putin does not mention this in his address.
- Putin declares Sunday, March 24, as a national day of mourning.
- The attack is condemned globally, with condolences from leaders such as Britain’s foreign secretary and NATO.
- Four armed suspects stormed the concert hall, shooting civilians and setting the venue on fire before fleeing.
- Russian law enforcement apprehends the suspects near the border with Ukraine.
- Putin denounces the attack as “bloody and barbaric” and vows to punish all involved while emphasizing the need for prevention of further attacks.
- Additional anti-terrorism measures are implemented across Russia to prevent future incidents.
The death toll from the tragic Crocus City Hall terror attack has risen to 133. The Russian Investigative Committee announced this figure, stating that 41 individuals have been identified and confirmed as deceased by the Ministry of Health, while 107 others remain hospitalized. The search for additional victims continues within the fire-damaged premises.
Rise in Death Toll
The Russian Investigative Committee reports an increase in the death toll following Friday’s shooting and arson attack at Crocus City Hall. Additional bodies have been discovered amidst the devastation, furthering the tragedy #Russia #Moscow
Putin’s Allegations Against Ukraine
Russian President Vladimir Putin has made a striking assertion, alleging Ukraine’s involvement in the terror attack. In a video address to the nation, President Putin claimed that Russian security forces intercepted four direct participants in the attack, apprehending them as they attempted to flee towards Ukraine. However, Kyiv has vehemently denied these accusations, dismissing them as baseless.
Response to the Attack
Despite claims made by the Islamic State (IS) of responsibility for the attack, President Putin refrained from acknowledging this in his address. He condemned the incident as a “bloody, barbaric terrorist act,” expressing condolences to the victims, including children, teenagers, and women. President Putin vowed to identify and punish all responsible parties for orchestrating the attack.
Denial by Ukraine
Ukrainian officials swiftly rejected any connection to the attack. Presidential advisor Mykhailo Podolyak emphasized that Ukraine maintains no ties to the incident, citing the ongoing conflict with Russia. Neither President Putin nor the FSB provided concrete evidence supporting the alleged Ukrainian link.
National Mourning
In response to the tragedy, President Putin declared Sunday, March 24, as a national day of mourning. Across the globe, individuals have been paying tribute to the victims by laying flowers and toys at the site of the attack and outside Russian embassies worldwide.
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Global Condemnation
The terrorist attack has elicited widespread condemnation internationally. Despite existing tensions due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, global leaders, including Britain’s foreign secretary and Nato representatives, have denounced the attack and extended condolences. President Putin engaged in discussions with leaders from Belarus, Uzbekistan, and Turkey, emphasizing the shared fight against terrorism.
Apprehension of Suspects
Four armed suspects stormed the venue on Friday, initiating a brutal assault on civilians attending a rock concert. The attackers inflicted gunshot wounds on attendees and set the hall ablaze before fleeing the scene. Russian law enforcement successfully apprehended the suspects near the border, with indications suggesting their intent to cross into Ukraine.
Putin’s Address
President Putin addressed the nation, branding the attack as an act of terrorism and promising swift retribution for those responsible. He expressed gratitude to first responders, law enforcement, and citizens for their efforts in assisting victims. Additionally, President Putin emphasized the implementation of heightened anti-terrorism measures across the nation to prevent future atrocities.
