Russia Accuses Unfriendly State of Planning 2024 Concert Hall Assault
Russia is accusing an unnamed ‘unfriendly state’ of orchestrating the 2024 Moscow concert hall attack, resulting in 145 deaths. Svetlana Petrenko noted that six Central Asians are charged for aiding the attackers. The attack, claimed by the Islamic State, is implicated in ongoing geopolitical tensions, with President Putin suggesting a Ukrainian role, which Ukraine denies. A memorial was held one year later in memory of the victims.
On March 22, 2025, Russia marked the first anniversary of the devastating concert hall attack at Crocus City Hall, where 145 lives were lost. The Russian Investigative Committee has accused the special services of an unnamed ‘unfriendly state’ of orchestrating the event, allegedly aimed at destabilizing Russia. Svetlana Petrenko, the committee’s representative, stated that six individuals from Central Asia have been charged in absentia for their roles in recruiting and training the attackers.
The four attackers, identified as Tajikistani citizens, faced terrorism charges in a Moscow court in late March 2024. Disturbingly, evidence indicated that some had sustained severe injuries, with one present appearing almost unconscious. The Crocus City Hall incident has been described as the deadliest act of terror in Russia in many years, injuring hundreds more. Petrenko confirmed that 19 individuals are currently in custody related to the attack.
The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for the massacre, during which gunmen targeted concertgoers waiting for a popular band, leading to an act of arson as well. Despite their claims, Russian officials, including President Vladimir Putin, have implicated Ukraine in the incident without providing evidence, a claim Kyiv strongly denies. To commemorate the victims, a memorial was unveiled on the anniversary, where mourners laid flowers, candles, and stuffed toys outside Crocus City Hall.
The accusations against an ‘unfriendly state’ highlight ongoing tensions surrounding the Moscow concert hall attack, which remains under investigation. As memorial services took place, the complexity of blame involving terrorist organizations and geopolitical disputes underscores Russia’s struggle to manage the security implications of such high-profile attacks. With 19 individuals detained and several more wanted, investigations will likely continue amid claims of foreign interference.
Original Source: apnews.com
