MOSCOW: Moscow, the capital of Russia, was rocked by a terrorist assault on Friday (March 22) night as several assailants stormed into a large concert hall and unleashed gunfire on the audience.
This horrifying attack occurred mere days after Russian President Vladimir Putin solidified his hold on power in a meticulously orchestrated electoral triumph.
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In what stands as one of the deadliest acts of terrorism in Russia in recent memory, the assault claimed the lives of over 60 individuals and left at least 140 others wounded.
Terrorist outfit ISIS has claimed responsibility for the terror attack in Moscow.
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ISIS claimed responsibility for the attack, saying its fighters attacked “a large gathering” on Moscow’s outskirts and “retreated to their bases safely”.
The attackers, clad in camouflage attire, infiltrated the venue, initiating a rampage by firing automatic weapons and hurling grenades or incendiary devices.
Disturbing videos captured scenes of flames and billowing black smoke engulfing the hall.
A coordinated response involving three helicopters was swiftly mobilized to douse the inferno, with water being discharged onto the sprawling concert hall, known for hosting renowned international performers and accommodating several thousand attendees.
Amidst the chaos, numerous individuals sought refuge behind seats or made frantic attempts to flee to the basement or rooftop to evade the onslaught of bullets.
By the stroke of midnight, the emergency services announced that the blaze had been successfully contained.
The international community, including the European Union, France, Spain, and Italy, united in condemnation of the attack.
The United States denounced the atrocity as ‘terrible’, noting that there was no immediate indication of a connection to the conflict in Ukraine.
Significantly, the US embassy had issued a warning two weeks prior to the attack, highlighting the potential threat posed by ‘extremists’ targeting mass gatherings in Moscow, including concerts.
Russian health minister Mikhail Murashko disclosed that 115 individuals, including five children, were hospitalized, with one child in critical condition.
Of the 110 adult patients, 60 were reported to be in grave condition.
Expressing solidarity, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi denounced the terrorist act, conveying, “India stands in solidarity with the government and the people of the Russian Federation in this hour of grief.”