MOSCOW: The Kremlin refused to comment on Monday on the Islamic State group’s claims that it was behind the deadliest attack in Russia in two decades, as rescuers searched for bodies amid the rubble of the burnt-out Moscow concert hall.
The attack, which occurred at the Crocus City Hall in Moscow, killed at least 137 persons, making it the deadliest incident in Europe.
While the Islamic State group has repeatedly claimed responsibility for the attack since Friday, Russian President Vladimir Putin hinted at a possible Ukraine connection in his only public remarks on the matter. Notably, no senior Russian official has addressed the IS claims directly.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov refrained from commenting on why Russia had not acknowledged IS’s involvement, stating that investigations were ongoing and no definitive conclusions had been reached. Despite this, the Islamic State-affiliated media channels have released videos allegedly showing the gunmen inside the concert hall during the attack.
Rescue operations are still underway, with rescuers combing through the debris to search for bodies. The death toll is expected to rise, with 97 persons still hospitalized.
President Putin is set to convene a meeting with security chiefs and government officials later on Monday, although he has no plans to visit the site of the attack.
The four suspected gunmen have been remanded in custody on “terror” charges. They face potential life imprisonment, with some officials advocating for the reinstatement of the death penalty for such cases.
Concerns exist over the assailants’ alleged ties to Ukraine, although Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has denied any involvement. Meanwhile, the United States has reiterated IS’s sole responsibility for the attack.
Russia observed a national day of mourning on Sunday, with tributes pouring in from across the country. Schools held special lessons on terrorism, with students wearing white ribbons in honor of the victims.
