An assault at a popular concert venue complex near Moscow on Friday has been attributed to ISIS, resulting in a devastating toll of at least 60 fatalities and 145 individuals hospitalized due to gunfire and incendiary devices.
The terror organization asserted its involvement through a brief declaration disseminated by the ISIS-affiliated news outlet Amaq on Telegram, though no substantiating evidence accompanied the claim.
According to State-run RIA Novosti, armed assailants unleashed chaos within the Crocus City Hall concert venue, engaging in gunfire and igniting flames with grenades or incendiary devices before reportedly fleeing the scene in a white Renault car.
The attack unfolded just prior to a scheduled performance by the music group Picnic, with the band’s manager confirming the safety of the performers to state media.
Footage capturing the harrowing event depicted scenes of panic as attendees sought refuge amidst the chaos, with some resorting to breaking windows to evade the onslaught of gunfire.
Efforts to contain the situation swiftly ensued, with regional authorities mobilizing emergency response teams to rescue and treat victims, resulting in 145 hospitalizations, with 60 individuals listed in serious condition.
President Vladimir Putin, apprised of the situation, extended well wishes to the injured and commended the efforts of medical personnel and emergency responders.
In the aftermath of the attack, calls for blood donations echoed across Moscow, with civic leaders urging residents to contribute to the ongoing relief efforts.
Expressing solidarity with the victims, French President Emmanuel Macron and United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the assault, denouncing it as both “heinous and cowardly.”
Despite prior warnings issued by the US Embassy in Russia regarding potential terrorist activities targeting large gatherings, including concerts, the attack at Crocus City Hall marks a tragic culmination of a month marred by ISIS-related incidents in Russia.
Ukraine, embroiled in a longstanding conflict with Russia, swiftly denied any involvement in the attack, as tensions continue to simmer between the neighboring nations.
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