Moscow Concert Hall, Russia’s Deadliest Attack in Decades

On Friday, March 22, at least four men fired automatic weapons into a sold-out show at the Crocus City Hall auditorium in Krasnogorsk, Russia, and then set the building on fire. At least 137 people were left dead, and more than 180 injured. This is Russia’s deadliest attack in two decades.

Sunday was declared a national day of mourning.

The response

• On Monday morning, a few hundred people gathered at the site of the attack to offer condolences to the victims and their loved ones. 
• A Russian Red Cross tent was set up at the location to provide psychological support to those in need. 
• Authorities are working to identify the victims of the attack, noting it could take weeks.

Claims of responsibility 

• An affiliate of the Islamic State group known as ISIS-K claimed responsibility for the attack, which has been confirmed by U.S. intelligence. Nevertheless, Russian President Vladimir Putin sought to tie Ukraine to the attack. Kyiv has denied any involvement. 
• Putin said the attack was “a bloody, barbaric terrorist act,” adding that “a window” was prepared for the assailants to cross into Ukraine. 
• French President Emmanuel Macron said it would be “cynical and counterproductive” for Russia to blame Ukraine for the attack. 
• The depth of the relationship between ISIS and ISIS-K is unclear. The groups share ideology and tactics, but their chain of command and strength of control is in question. ISIS has a longstanding history against Russia and Putin. 

The suspects

• Four suspects were arrested in Russia’s Bryansk region. The suspects, identified as Saidakrami Murodali Rachabalizoda, Dalerdzhon Barotovich Mirzoyev, Shamsidin Fariduni, and Muhammadsobir Fayzovare, are from Tajikistan, a former Soviet republic. 
• They are being charged with carrying out terrorist acts and face life sentences. The suspects appeared before a Moscow court Sunday night, showing signs of severe beatings. One suspect was brought in from intensive care in a wheelchair and hospital gown. 
• All four reportedly pled guilty, but the suspect’s conditions are raising questions about whether they admitted guilt freely. 
• The Tajikistan government has reiterated its readiness to cooperate and fight terrorism with Russia. Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon expressed “deep condolences and feelings of solidarity with the Russian people in connect with the death of civilians as a result of the vile terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall.”
• Russia’s Foreign Ministry reported that Tajikistan specialists are providing assistance and support to investigators in Russia as the case unfolds.