Russians lower flags, lay flowers to honour concert hall attack victims
Russia observed a day of mourning with flags at half-mast after an attack at a rock concert outside Moscow resulted in 137 deaths, including three children, and 180 injuries. President Vladimir Putin declared the national day of mourning and promised to find and punish those responsible for the attack, which Islamic State claimed responsibility for. Over 100 people remained hospitalized, some in serious condition. Putin lit a candle in memory of the victims and expressed condolences in a national address. The attackers, who had attempted to flee to Ukraine, were said by Putin to have had assistance from the Ukrainian side, a claim Ukraine denied. The attack took place at Crocus City Hall during a performance by the rock group Picnic. It was the deadliest attack on Russian soil since the 2004 Beslan school siege. In response to the tragedy, Moscow residents formed long lines to donate blood, and billboards across the city displayed mourning messages. Countries worldwide expressed horror and condolences. Putin mentioned that 11 people had been detained in connection with the attack, including the suspected gunmen. The Federal Security Service (FSB) stated the gunmen had contacts in Ukraine. The U.S. shared information with Russia about a planned attack in Moscow earlier in the month, emphasizing that Islamic State bore sole responsibility for the attack and denying any Ukrainian involvement.
