Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly disregarded the concerns raised by the US regarding a possible terrorist incident in Moscow.
Putin's dismissal was followed by a tragic event unfolded at Crocus City Hall, situated in the Krasnogorsk district on the outskirts of Moscow, during the night of March 22.
US Warns of Terrorist Attack in Moscow Prior to Incident
According to reports from Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB), the incident has been labeled as a "terrorist attack."
The incident resulted in a devastating loss of life, with at least 40 individuals losing their lives and over 100 sustaining injuries.
Videos circulating on social media claim to depict the unfolding of the attack. Gunshots and screams of concertgoers can be heard in some of the footage.
As per reports from Russian state media, armed terrorists wielding assault rifles unleashed gunfire in the building's lobby before proceeding to the main concert hall, where a band was set to perform.
According to reports, an explosion occurred inside the venue, causing a fire that has now consumed a significant portion of the building and reached the roof.
On March 7, the US Embassy in Moscow issued a security alert regarding potential attacks by "extremists" targeting large events in the city.
American citizens were advised to steer clear of crowded areas, a recommendation that was quickly echoed by several other countries including the United Kingdom, Canada, and Germany.
In a recent report, TASS, a state-controlled news agency, shared President Putin's remarks from a Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) board meeting.
During the meeting, Putin criticized the Western warnings, describing them as efforts to provoke fear and disrupt social stability in Russia. The news of Putin's dismissal came on March 19, just days before the tragic shooting incident in Moscow.
While the US security alert mentioned concerts as a potential target, it remains uncertain whether Friday's attack is connected to the threats being monitored by Washington.
On Friday, the US embassy issued another alert, acknowledging the attack and advising Americans to steer clear of the area.
Russia's foreign ministry issued a statement expressing strong condemnation for the attack at a concert hall in Moscow. "Our hearts go out to the families of the victims during this difficult time."
Crocus City Hall Terrorism
Witnesses and videos shared on social media documented the attackers as they made their way through the concert venue, firing at people without thinking for their safety.
The identities of the perpetrators remain unknown, although the Islamic State (IS) has claimed responsibility for the attack on Telegram. However, this claim has not been confirmed.
In addition, Ukraine's military intelligence, the HUR, has characterized the mass shooting as a deliberate action orchestrated by Putin's special services. The purpose of this act is to justify increased attacks on Ukraine and promote the full-scale mobilization of Russian forces.
The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly denied any involvement in the violence on March 22, urging the global community to disregard the false information being spread by Russia.
The Ukrainian statement criticized the actions of the Putin regime, alleging that it has caused harm to its citizens in Ukraine through missile attacks, shelling, and torture, all in pursuit of political gains.
Related Article : Dozens Killed, Over 100 Wounded as Camouflaged Gunmen Shoot Up, Set Fire to Moscow Concert Hall; Kremlin Eyes 'Terrorism'
