The Kremlin responded today that no country is immune to terrorism when asked whether security services had failed to prevent Friday’s deadly attack on a concert hall, the worst attack on Russian soil in 20 years. At least 137 people were killed and 182 injured when four men stormed Crocus City Hall, shooting indiscriminately before setting the 6,200-seat venue on fire.
Russian President Vladimir Putin said during an address to the nation on Saturday that all those responsible for the carnage would be punished. He also said that 11 people were arrested, four of them on their way to Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said today it was inappropriate to comment on the Islamic State group claiming responsibility for the attack while the investigation is ongoing.
“The investigation is ongoing,” Peskov told reporters. “So far, no version has been formulated at all.” When Peskov was asked if carrying out such a bloody attack just outside the Russian capital constituted a failure of the special services, he replied that feelings are strong, but no country is immune. “Unfortunately, the world shows us that no city, no country can be completely immune to the threat of terrorism,” Peskov said, adding that special services are working tirelessly to defend Russia.
“The fight against terrorism is an ongoing process that requires international cooperation with all means. But you can see now, in this acute conflict period, that kind of cooperation is not fully realized in any way.” The Federal Security Service (FSB) is one of Russia’s most powerful institutions. It has been headed by Alexander Bortnikov since 2008, who informed Putin about the investigations after the attack.
US intelligence agencies
The US said it had warned Russia two weeks ago about the possibility of an attack on Moscow. This information led the US embassy in Moscow to issue a warning that “extremists” had imminent plans for an attack. Asked whether Russian security services need help from the West, Peskov replied: “Our special services are working independently, now there is no question of any help.”
Peskov declined to comment on details about the intelligence services. He pointed out, however, that in talks with other leaders after the attack, other heads of state suggested improving international efforts to counter terrorism.
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