WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken strongly condemned the deadly attack in Moscow, denouncing it as a “heinous crime” and reaffirming Washington’s stance against terrorism in all its manifestations.
In a statement released on Saturday, Blinken expressed solidarity with the people of Russia in mourning the tragic loss of life resulting from the horrific event. He emphasized the United States’ firm condemnation of terrorism in all its forms, underlining a commitment to standing with nations affected by such acts of violence.
The attack, which occurred in a Moscow suburb and killed 133 people, provoked a swift response from the White House, which characterized it as “terrible.”
Meanwhile, Russian authorities have arrested 11 persons, including four suspected gunmen, in connection with the tragic shooting rampage that killed 133 people at a concert hall near Moscow. The attack, which occurred at Crocus City Hall, has been declared the deadliest in Russia since the Beslan school siege in 2004.
11 Suspects Arrested for Involvement in Moscow Attack
The Kremlin confirmed the arrests, with FSB security service chief Alexander Bortnikov reporting to President Vladimir Putin that the detainees include “four terrorists.” Efforts are underway to identify any additional accomplices involved in the attack.
Investigators from the Russian Investigative Committee revealed that the death toll from the shooting and ensuing fire had risen to 133, up from the initial count of 115 fatalities. Search operations at the scene of the attack are ongoing as authorities work to clear the debris.
The United States strongly condemns the March 22 terrorist attack in Moscow. We stand in solidarity with the people of Russia in grieving the loss of life after this horrific event.
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) March 23, 2024
The Islamic State group said Saturday four of its militants carried out an attack on a concert hall in a Moscow suburb. “The attack was carried out by four IS fighters armed with machine guns, a pistol, knives and firebombs,” IS said on one of its Telegram channels.
The group said its fighters killed “dozens of Christians” as part of its “raging war” with countries it said were fighting Islam. The group had already said on Friday night they carried out the attack, and claimed their fighters had “returned to base safely”.
