Moscow Terror Attack: Global Condemnation and Unheeded US Warnings
The devastating terror attack at the Crocus City Hall near Moscow on Friday, which left at least 60 people dead and over 145 injured, came amidst warnings from the US about imminent threats to large gatherings in the Russian capital. The US Embassy in Russia had cautioned its citizens to avoid concerts and other such events due to reports of extremist plans. However, these warnings were dismissed by Russian President Vladimir Putin as “provocative.”
The attack, which saw gunmen storm the venue and throw an incendiary device, was claimed by ISIS. The scale of the carnage, evident in footage showing terrified civilians hiding behind cushioned seats while gunshots rang out, would undoubtedly be a significant embarrassment for Putin. He had recently emphasized Russia’s message of national security during his re-election campaign just days prior to the attack.
Russia’s intelligence services were criticized for their failure to prevent this assault, adding to Putin’s woes. The US National Security Council spokesperson, Adrienne Watson, confirmed that the US had shared the intelligence with Russian authorities as part of their longstanding “duty to warn” policy.
Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and India were among the many countries that condemned the attack and expressed solidarity with Russia. Pakistani Foreign Affairs Ministry issued a statement on Saturday expressing deep condolences for the loss of lives in the attack. Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman denounced the “terrorist attack” and sent a message of condolences to Putin. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condemned the attack in a public post.
Despite these international reactions, Putin remained defiant, refusing to be intimidated by US warnings. In a speech on Tuesday, he labeled American attempts to warn Russia as “blackmail” and an attempt to destabilize their society.
Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his sympathies for the victims of the attack and gratitude to the medical personnel, as reported by state-run RIA-Novosti. Shaman, the lead singer of Picnic band, who was scheduled to perform at the Crocus City Hall on Friday, pledged to pay for the funerals and treatments of those affected.
In the past month, Russia had successfully thwarted several ISIS-related incidents according to RIA Novosti, adding weight to the US intelligence that warned of imminent threats.
As the world mourns and stands in solidarity with Russia during this difficult time, it remains crucial for global leaders to collaborate and share intelligence to prevent such heinous attacks and ensure the safety and security of their citizens.
