Mourning Russia: A Nation in Grief After Deadliest Attack in Two Decades
Russia observed a day of mourning on Sunday, following the heinous and devastating attack that took place at a concert venue in Moscow, resulting in the death of over 137 people, including three children. This tragic event marked Russia’s worst attack in the past two decades.
The scene of horror unfolded on Friday night when armed assailants mercilessly stormed a popular concert venue complex located on the outskirts of Moscow’s capital. The swift and brutal nature of the attack left countless families shattered and an entire nation in deep sorrow.
The perpetrators have since been identified as four gunmen, who were arrested near the border on Saturday. The nationalities of these suspects remain undisclosed as of now.
ISIS, an extremist group known for its terroristic activities, claimed responsibility for the assault via their affiliate news agency, Amaq, on Telegram.
Thousands of people braved the pouring Rain on Sunday to pay their respects and lay flowers at a memorial site established outside Crocus City Hall in Moscow. Hundreds of bouquets and a group of white balloons adorned the scene, serving as an emotional tribute to the victims.
Religious leaders also arrived at the memorial site and led prayers that were joined by the grieving crowds, many of whom held Russian flags with lowered heads.
Among those who visited the memorial was Alexander Matveev, a 37-year-old Moscow resident. Speaking to the press, Matveev shared his feelings of insecurity and concern over the possibility of another attack taking place in Russia.
“I listened to Putin,” Matveev said. “He promised us security. But now, it seems like the situation has taken a turn for the worse. Let’s see what investigators have to say.”
Despite the fear and uncertainty, Matveev emphasized that Russia would not be deterred. “But Russia is strong; we won’t give up,” he added.
Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased during an address to the nation on Saturday. He described the assault as a “bloody and barbaric act” and declared Sunday as a day of mourning.
During his address, Putin also implicated Ukraine in the attack, alleging that some on their side had helped the perpetrators escape towards the border. He further condemned the assault as an act of “international terrorism.”
Ukrainian authorities, however, vehemently denied any involvement in the attack and labeled Putin’s accusations as a “planned provocation.” They warned of potential consequences for the international community if these baseless allegations were allowed to persist.
Meanwhile, Amaq released a graphic video that appears to document Friday’s attack on the concert hall in suburban Moscow. The footage purportedly shows one of the attackers during the assault, suggesting a direct link between the perpetrators and ISIS to transmit the video.
The Russian Investigative Committee updated their death toll on Sunday, stating that 137 individuals had lost their lives in the attack. Additionally, they confirmed that 62 victims have been identified thus far. However, the identification process for the remaining victims may take up to two weeks due to the complex nature of the molecular genetic examinations required.
The investigation into this horrific incident continues, leaving Russia and the rest of the world with heavy hearts and unanswered questions.
